In What Ways Does Shakespeare Illustrate The Conflict Between Personal Morality And Societal Expectations In His Secondary Characters?
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Introduction
Shakespeare's literary works intricately explore the complex relationship between personal morality and societal expectations, especially through his richly developed secondary characters. These characters offer profound insights into the ethical dilemmas individuals face while conforming to or rebelling against societal norms and pressures.
Conflict in Shakespeare's Secondary Characters
In Shakespeare's plays, many of the secondary characters grapple with the clash between their personal values and the demands of society. Characters such as Lady Macbeth from 'Macbeth' and Iago from 'Othello' exemplify this tension brilliantly. Lady Macbeth, driven by ruthless ambition, defies traditional societal norms of femininity and morality, creating a stark contrast to her husband's indecision. Similarly, Iago's treachery highlights the destructive nature of personal ambition as it undermines trust and honor, showcasing how individual motivations can conflict with societal ethics.
- Lady Macbeth's ambition defies conventional gender roles.
- Iago's manipulations expose the darker aspects of societal expectations.
Morality vs. Society in Shakespeare's Works
Shakespeare skillfully presents numerous instances where the internal struggles of secondary characters illustrate the conflict between personal morality and societal pressures. These characters frequently face dilemmas requiring them to choose between their integrity and the need to conform to societal expectations. For example, in 'Hamlet', Polonius embodies the societal norms of loyalty and duty as he manipulates his children, reinforcing generational authority over personal desires. In 'Romeo and Juliet', the Nurse initially champions Juliet's ambitions but later succumbs to the societal influences that seek to restrain Juliet's passionate pursuits.
- In 'Hamlet', Polonius symbolizes societal expectations through his manipulative parenting.
- In 'Romeo and Juliet', the Nurse balances support for Juliet with adherence to familial obligations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shakespeare masterfully employs his secondary characters to delve into the persistent conflict between personal morals and societal expectations. Their struggles vividly reflect the broader human experience of navigating ethical dilemmas within the constraints imposed by social norms and influence.
Expert Quote
Professor David Bevington, Shakespearean Scholar and Emeritus Professor at the University of Chicago
Shakespeare's secondary characters often serve as a mirror to the ethical struggles that confront individuals, oscillating between the pressures placed upon them by the society they inhabit and their own moral compass.
Bevington, David. 'Shakespeare's Ideas: More Things in Heaven and Earth,' Cambridge University Press, 2010.
Relevant Links
Romeo and Juliet: An Exploration of Gender Roles | Under the ...
https://underthefallenleaves.wordpress.com/2013/02/26/romeo-and-juliet-an-exploration-of-gender-roles/Part 3: Literary Criticism: An Introduction | Perspectives: Composition ...
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/sunycorning1020elec201819/chapter/part-3-literary-criticism-an-introduction/Romeo and Juliet: Themes | SparkNotes
https://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/romeojuliet/themes/Station Eleven by Emily St John Mandel | Lisa's Study Guides
https://www.vcestudyguides.com/blog/station-eleven-by-emily-st-john-mandelSubverting Authority and Gender Binaries in Macbeth | by Grace ...
https://gracelapointe.medium.com/subverting-authority-and-gender-binaries-in-macbeth-f93c8e16b665Most popular questions
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