The Moral Universe of Shakespeare's Problem PlaysWhat is it that makes Shakespeare’s problem plays problematic? Many critics have sought for the underlying vision or message of these puzzling and disturbing dramas. Originally published in 1987, the key to Viv Thomas’s new synthesis of the plays is the idea of fracture and dissolution in the universe. From the collapse of ‘degree’ in Troilus and Cressida to the corruption at the heart of innocence in Measure for Measure, to the puzzling status of virtue and valour in All’s Well, the most obvious feature of these plays in their capacity to prompt new questions. In a detailed discussion of each play in turn, the author traces the dominant themes that both distinguish and unite them, and provides numerous insights into the sources, background, texture and morality of the plays. |
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... insists on a close affinity between Troilus and Cressida and Timon of Athens: 'we must notice a striking resemblance in its spirit and structure to Timon of Athens'. 3 No modern scholar would attempt the task which Dowden set himself ...
... insists that 'the “problem” mood must not only be prominent in the action; it must dominate it'.10 Thus the serious or dark strains in the romantic comedies do not make them problem plays. 'Still less', says Lawrence, 'do the tragic ...
... insist on separating its various strands. Bertram inherits honour, but surprisingly the King, among others, expresses the ... insists that Bertram cannot recover the honour lost in his treatment of Helena by means of his exploits on the ...
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Contents
Wholeness and Division in Troilus and Cressida | |
Virtue and Honour in Alls Well that Ends Well | |
Order and Authority in Measure for Measure | |
Conclusion | |
Bibliography | |