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. |
From inside the book
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... passionate discussions with my extramural students. The questions and debates to which these classes gave rise did much to stimulate my approach to the problem plays in general and Troilus and Cressida in particular. My second debt of ...
... passionate and tragical view of life.1 It is apparent that Dowden recognises a change of tone and mood from the romantic comedies: All's Well is 'grave and earnest'; Measure for Measure 'dark and bitter'; and Troilus and Cressida, which ...
... passionate intensity created through the collision of characters, the action is placed in such a way that the issues remain clear and constantly on the surface. Irony, paradox and deflation are essential elements in maintaining the ...
... passionate desire to believe in total integrity: a wholeness and beauty in life which cannot be tarnished. Hector is emphatic in placing honour before life itself, and believes that the code to which he adheres is universal. His dying ...
... passionate feeling but Boccaccio, who changes the name of Troilus' sweetheart from Briseida to Criseida, introduces ... passion and sorrow has been expanded into what has often been called a psychological novel. In thus elaborating the ...
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 | |