The Timeless Relevance of Shakespeare's Themes

Relevance of Shakespeare's Plays 

Discover how Shakespeare's exploration of love, power, identity, and ambition continues to resonate in today's world. Explore and learn why Shakespeare's exploration of universal themes of love, power, identity, and ambition remains so relevant today. 

Introduction: 

In an age of digital innovation and changing cultural standards, the following question arises: Why does William Shakespeare, a 16th-century playwright, retain his hold on contemporary audiences? Shakespeare, commonly regarded as the greatest English-language playwright, wrote his plays more than four centuries ago. However, his plays and their narratives continue to ring bells with audiences around the globe. He skilfully interwove universal themes in his plays such as love, power, betrayal, identity, and ambition. The key to his continued relevance is not the Elizabethan settings or poetic language, but the masterful employment of these universal themes that are at the core of his plays—love, power, betrayal, ambition, jealousy, identity, and the human condition itself. These are themes that cut across time and culture, capturing the intricacies of the human condition. They are not merely literary tools but expressions of universal truths about man and therefore Shakespeare is as pertinent today as he was during the 16th century. Through observing how Shakespeare's observations about man continue to hold relevance, we can see why his writings remain celebrated and researched globally. 

Why Shakespeare Still Matters 

In an age of obsessive innovation, scrolling trends, and mutable language, it may seem strange that we still hold onto the plays of a playwright born in 1564. And yet William Shakespeare persists to pack classrooms, theaters, and even our digital platforms. His tales survived monarchs, empires, revolutions, and technology upheavals. But what is so timeless about Shakespeare? Why do his works remain relevant in the 21st century? The answer lies not in the settings of his plays or the Elizabethan dialect, but in the universal themes he wove into every story—love, power, betrayal, identity, ambition, jealousy, and the eternal questions of what it means to be human. Shakespeare doesn’t just entertain; he holds up a mirror to our lives. Let's see why his themes have stood the test of time, and how they still resonate through our contemporary world.  

 Love: Beautiful, Messy, and Complicated 

Theme of Love in Shakespeare

Shakespeare never idealized love—he exposed its rough, imperfect corners. From the head-over-heels infatuation of Romeo and Juliet to the miscommunication of Much Ado About Nothing, he portrayed the euphoric highs and the aching lows of love. Love continues to perplex and engulf us today. We navigate dating sites, long-distance love, ghosting, and heartbreak. And yet, emotional realities remain unchanged: miscommunication, yearning, jealousy, sacrifice. That's why Shakespearean love tales continue to ring so true. Shakespeare's view of love is far from idealized. Love in Romeo and Juliet is a passionate and disastrous one; love in Much Ado About Nothing is witty and misconstrued. These tales reflect the intricate nature of today's relationships, where love may be mixed with conflict, passion, and making up. Shakespeare's investigation into the multi-faced nature of love offers universal truths about human feeling. From the adolescent romance in Romeo and Juliet to the older and manipulative affair in Othello and Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare examines love in all its intricacies. He embodies the rush, the vulnerability, and occasionally the devastating quality of love. In an era of dating apps and changing relationships, the emotional realities of love—miscommunication, desire, passion, and heartbreak—remain relatable. Which of us has not experienced the pain of love that is not returned or the bewilderment of passion that is unreasonable? 

"These violent delights have violent ends." – Romeo and Juliet, Act 2, Scene 6 

This quote from Juliet refers to the destructive power of strong emotions, something still appreciated in the world today as love remains a motivator in humans' lives and continues to be a source of both joy and heartbreak. 

Power and Ambition: The Dark Side of Success 

Power: The Corrupting Influence 

Shakespeare's plays are also replete with a deep analysis of power and how it can corrupt. In King Lear, the tragic outcomes of power conflicts are seen as Lear's splitting of his kingdom results in family strife, madness, and death. Likewise, in The Tempest, Prospero's magical power over others is questioned regarding the morality of control and domination. Today, abuse of power is still an urgent concern, from political scandals to corporate abuse. The power struggle, be it on an international level or in the narrow arena of family or institution, echoes Shakespeare's accounts of monarchs who utilize power to abuse, dominate, and injure others. 

Theme of Power

The continued arguments regarding power relations at the workplace, in politics, and within social movements such as #MeToo affirm the continued applicability of Shakespeare's examination of how power influences relationships and society. Another dominant theme in Shakespeare's plays is ambition, specifically the ambition for power and the ramifications of uncontrolled desire. In Macbeth, the ambition of the title character leads him to murder and the betrayal of his own principles, ultimately to his destruction. Julius Caesar also deals with the ambition of Caesar and his assassins, illustrating how individual desire for power can skew one's sense of honor, morality, and friendship. In dramas such as Macbeth and Julius Caesar, Shakespeare examines the corrupting power of power and unbridled ambition. Shakespeare examines how ambition can lift—or ruin. Power is tempting, and its pursuit frequently has a cost. 

Today, ambition is still one of the most powerful driving forces in politics, business, and life. The need to ascend the corporate ladder, attain political power, or become famous tends to cause individuals to make ethical compromises or abandon their values—much like Macbeth and Caesar. Modern-day tales, such as the House of Cards TV series or the rise and fall of many real-life leaders, illustrate how ambition can propel individuals to great heights but also lead to their eventual downfall. Ring a bell? In corporate boardrooms and world politics, ambition persists in shaping lives and headlines. Shakespeare's cautionary legends remind us that when unchecked, power exacts its toll from humanity. Characters motivated by a need to control frequently find themselves in ethical conflicts and catastrophic failures. This theme is familiar today, as we see politicians and leaders wrestling with the ethics of their desire for power. Shakespeare's plays are cautionary tales regarding the pitfalls of power when it suppresses conscience. These tales are hauntingly reflected in contemporary political environments around the world. The desire for power, the vulnerability of democracy, and the repercussions of ambition unbound—these themes might be taken verbatim from current headlines. Shakespeare knew, more than many, that human ambition tends to straddle a line between greatness and destruction. 

"Vaulting ambition, which o'er-leaps itself and falls on the other side." – Macbeth, Act 1, Scene 7

 Macbeth's introspection about the pitfalls of unbridled ambition is as valid today as it was during the time of Shakespeare. It is a warning to those who seek power at any cost. 

"Unequal temperament is more so in those who are in power." – King Lear, Act 3, Scene 2 

Modern Representation of King Lear's Betrayal by his daughters

Lear's musings on power demonstrate how it distorts the perception of people, rendering them susceptible to irrationality and cruelty, much like most contemporary leaders who are influenced by their egos and ambitions for domination. 

Identity: Who Are We, Really? 

From Hamlet wondering where he fits in the world to Viola pretending to be a man in Twelfth Night, Shakespeare repeatedly asked: Who am I? Today, we're still searching for identity—through gender, race, culture, and self-expression. In a time when social media distorts reality and authenticity, Shakespeare's characters assist us in examining how we define ourselves. Shakespeare often asked questions about identity, as in Twelfth Night, where the characters masquerade, and Hamlet, where the main character ponders life. These issues are especially relevant in society today, where people move through intricate identities by gender, culture, and belief. 

Theme of Identity in Hamlet

Shakespeare's plays invite us to look inside and seek true self-expression. From the gender-bending costumes in Twelfth Night to the existential questions of Hamlet, Shakespeare was intrigued by the issue of identity.

Gender Crossing Disguise in the Twelfth Night 

His characters often grapple with who they are as opposed to who society wants them to be. In an age that is more and more concerned with personal identity, self-expression, and mental health, these inner struggles seem more contemporary than antique. 

Hamlet's now legendary query, "To be, or not to be," resonates still in the minds of those seeking meaning and purpose in a frequently cacophonous world. 

Jealousy, Betrayal, and Revenge: Feelings That Persist 

Jealousy: The Green-Eyed Monster 

Jealousy is also a theme Shakespeare skilfully examines in his plays, perhaps most significantly in Othello. The "green-eyed monster" of jealousy is one of Shakespeare's best-known metaphors, which conveys the devastating potential of envy and suspicion. Othello's all-consuming jealousy, driven by Iago's manipulations, causes him to kill his wife Desdemona, a tragic result of his failure to manage his emotions. Even now, jealousy remains a powerful influence, particularly on the front lines of relationships and social media. The recent emergence of media such as Facebook and Instagram allow for easy comparing of oneself against others, spreading feelings of inferiority and jealousy. From romantic partners to employees to friends, jealousy is around us, making Shakespeare's journey through this dangerous emotion as relevant and impactful today as when it was penned. 

Othello and Desdemona- in play Othello

The way jealousy distorts reality and precipitates hasty, irreversible decisions still echoes in tales from celebrity rumours to the more severe outcomes of cyber bullying and relationship dissolution. 

"O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on." – Othello, Act 3, Scene 3 

Iago's caution to Othello serves as a classic reminder of the ruinous strength of jealousy—a power that, left unchecked, can devour even the sanest of people. Othello illustrates how jealousy can destroy relationships. 

Iago's Manipulation and Provoking Jealousy in Othello

King Lear exposes the destruction of betrayal. These tales are not only melodramatic—though they be so—they are painfully recognisable. Emotional upheaval isn't in the past. We continue to struggle with these same emotions in relationships, families, and friendships. Shakespeare didn't create jealousy or betrayal—but he described them so powerfully that we see our own hearts within his words. In Othello, jealousy results in tragedy; in King Lear, betrayal results in sibling conflict. These feelings are just as pertinent today as they were then, impacting personal relationships and social dynamics. Shakespeare's examination of these themes confirms the ability of unchecked feeling to destroy and the value of trust and loyalty in human relationships. Human imperfection is at the core of Shakespeare's narratives. In Othello, a magnificent general is ruined by jealousy; in King Lear, betrayal by family members results in madness and devastation. These raw emotions and moral choices are uncomfortably familiar in our own lives and in public scandals. Shakespeare's probing of these darker aspects of the human condition challenges us not only to feel sympathy but to consider our own choices and relationships. 

"Et tu, Brute?" – Julius Caesar, Act 3, Scene 1

 Caesar's last words to Brutus, his shock and grief at being betrayed by one he thought was a friend, express the universal pain of betrayal that still resonates in literature and life today. 

Betrayal: The Deepest Wound 

Caeser and Brutus

Betrayal is perhaps one of the most influential and damaging themes in Shakespearean plays. In Julius Caesar, Caesar's betrayal by Brutus and the assassins is one of the greatest acts of betrayal in the history of literature. 

Vercingetorix Throws Down His Arms at the Feet of Julius Caesar, 1899,
by French painter Lionel Noel Roye

Likewise, in Hamlet, the betrayal of Hamlet's father by his brother Claudius initiates the whole tragic chain of events leading to murder, revenge, and death. 

Betrayal remains a popular theme found everywhere in contemporary media. From spy thrillers and political thrillers to interpersonal betrayals in love and family lives, the concept of treason is a genre favourite. 

The psychological and emotional repercussions of betrayal—be it the cheating of an intimate partner, the betrayal of a friend, or the dishonesty of a leader—are probed in films, television shows, and books such as House of Cards, The Godfather, and Big Little Lies. As in Shakespearean plays, it is betrayal which destroys the fabric of trust and turns lives topsy-turvy. 

Free Will vs. Destiny: Are We in Charge? 

In Macbeth and Hamlet, Shakespeare goes deep into the question of ages: Do we create our fate, or is it predestined?  

Whether we're facing professional choices, familial pressure, or the curve balls life throws us, that question remains with us today. In a time of choice fatigue and existential dread, Shakespeare reminds us that we've always struggled with the same uncertainty. 

Shakespeare's characters often grapple with the tension between destiny and personal choice. In Macbeth, the prophecy sets events in motion, yet the protagonist's decisions lead to his downfall. This theme resonates in contemporary discussions about free will, destiny, and the extent to which individuals control their lives. Shakespeare's works invite readers to reflect on their own agency and the forces that shape their destinies. 

There is a thread of philosophy through much of Shakespeare's writing: are we captains of our fate, or do we follow set paths? Macbeth's journey into tyranny is motivated both by prophecy and free will. It remains to influence argument today in psychology, science, and theology. As we move further into a complicated world, Shakespeare encourages us to recall that the attempt to reconcile fate with autonomy is timeless. 

Society and Power Structures: Still Relevant 

Shakespeare wasn’t afraid to critique the system. His plays questioned leadership, justice, class, and gender roles. From the madness of kings to the wisdom of fools, he dissected society from every angle. Today, activists, filmmakers, and writers still adapt his works to address issues like racism, gender inequality, and authoritarianism. His stories remain powerful tools for reflection and resistance. Shakespeare's critique of societal norms and power structures is exemplified in plays like The Merchant of Venice and Measure for Measure. He explores issues of justice, class, and authority, themes that remain topical as societies strive for fairness and equality. Shakespeare's writings continue to act as a mirror to society, provoking debates regarding justice and social equality. Shakespeare was a visionary in his criticism of societal constructs. Whether through the madness of kings or the folly of the masses, he reflects a mirror reflecting the civilisation itself. His plays comment on justice, gender roles, class distinction, and the nature of leadership. On every corner of the world, his plays are used to reflect local concerns—testimony that his observations are timeless and universal. 

Conclusion: Shakespeare Speaks to the Soul 

Shakespeare is not just a name on an ancient book. He's a voice who still whispers in our ears, posing questions, we have not stopped asking: What is love? What is right? Who am I? What do I want? His characters may wear crowns or corsets, but their hearts beat just like ours. Their dreams, fears, flaws, and hopes are ours too. That's why we keep reading, watching, quoting, and reinventing his work. In a rapidly changing world, Shakespeare gives us something we don't often find: a timelessness that lets us see ourselves more clearly. So, the next time someone asks why Shakespeare remains relevant, simply tell them this—because he knew us before we knew ourselves 

The Eternal Mirror 

Shakespeare's dramas survive not on account of their historical context or antiquated usage, but on account of something universal. His subject matter, full of psychological and emotional resonance, is ageless. It speaks to the kind of being we are, the things that frighten us, the things we want, and the ways we love. Under every canopy, in each generation, Shakespeare addresses the heart. His writings are not the artefacts of the past—they are living, breathing dialogues with the human soul. Shakespeare's continued relevance is due to his deep insight into the human condition. His investigation of universal themes remains relevant, providing insights into love, power, identity, and morality. In a world that is constantly changing, Shakespeare's dramas are a timeless mirror of who we are and who we want to be.

#Shakespeare's themes, 

#timelessrelevance,

#love, 

#power, 

#identity,

#ambition, 

#humancondition 

Destiny or Choice? Deciphering Fate vs. Free Will in Shakespeare's Immortal Plays

What ultimately propels the action in Shakespeare's plays—cosmic powers beyond human influence, or the decisions of flawed, intriguing characters? From Romeo and Juliet's star-crossed lovers to Macbeth's ruthless rise and fall, Shakespeare masterfully choreographs a subtle ballet between fate and free will, leaving audiences pondering who—or what—is really in control. In this post, we’ll dive into the heart of this age-old debate, exploring how the Bard blurs the line between destiny and decision, and why that tension still resonates with us today.

Fate or Free will? Destiny or Agency?

The Function of Fate vs. Free Will in Shakespeare's Plays

Perhaps the most intriguing and long-lasting theme in literature is the conflict between fate and free will, and no dramatist has examined this dynamic more thoroughly than William Shakespeare. Whether through the tragic fall of his characters or their times of triumph, Shakespeare is often concerned with the balance between the forces that dictate our lives and the choices that chart our courses. This concern is clearly present in such plays as Macbeth, Hamlet, and Romeo and Juliet. These productions encourage viewers to ponder how much human beings can control their own fates, and whether fate or free will is the supreme force.

Fate in Shakespeare's Plays

In Shakespeare's tragedies, fate tends to be an unseen, near-omnipotent power, guiding characters toward their destinies regardless of their actions. 

Macbeth's Ambition- his fate and his choices..

Macbeth

In Macbeth, for example, the title character's meeting with the three witches is the catalyst for the ruinous events that ensue. The prophecy of the witches predicts Macbeth's ascendancy to power, and although Macbeth at first resists, he finally decides to kill King Duncan in an attempt to make the prophecy come true. But as the play goes on, it becomes evident that Macbeth is trapped in a web where destiny and his own deeds blend. The witches themselves hint that Macbeth's destiny is predetermined by powers outside his control. In Act 1, Scene 3, the First Witch addresses Macbeth, saying, "All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter! " This prophecy appears to make him feel in control, but it also initiates his violent behavior, further down the road of self-destruction. Even though he feels he is controlling his destiny, Macbeth is still helpless against the witches' prophecy. As he is consumed by paranoia and guilt, it becomes clear that his efforts to shape his fate only achieve the exact destiny he had wanted to escape. 

Romeo and Juliet

Likewise, in Romeo and Juliet, the idea of fate lies at the center of the tragic conclusion. Since the start of the play, the "star-crossed" lovers are already defined as destined to fail. In the Prologue, the Chorus presents the lovers as "a pair of star-cross'd lovers," suggesting that their fate is determined by the stars—an outside, unmanageable force.

Their fatal demise appears to validate the suggestion that no matter how hard they may struggle to pursue their desires or resist their families' wills, fate drives them to a certain doom.

Friar Lawrence is a central figure in William Shakespeare's tragic romance, Romeo and Juliet. He is a highly respected Franciscan friar who has a strong influence on the lives of the two title characters. Here's the breakdown of his role:

Confidant and Advisor

Friar Lawrence is a counselor and confidant to Romeo and Juliet. He's the one they go to for advice, comfort, and consolation. He's a wise and compassionate mentor who attempts to provide them with good counsel, usually a combination of spiritual and worldly wisdom.

The Marriage

Friar Lawrence consents to marry Romeo and Juliet in secret, hoping their marriage will finally end the peace between their rival families, the Montagues and Capulets. He is convinced that their love can be a strong agent of reconciliation. 

The Plan

When Romeo is exiled from Verona, Friar Lawrence devises a scheme to prevent Juliet from marrying another man her parents have arranged for her to marry. He provides her with a potion so that she will seem dead, hoping to get her out of her arranged marriage and back to Romeo. 

Consequences

Yet, Friar Lawrence's scheme finally goes awry. Romeo mistakenly thinks Juliet is actually dead and poisons himself in her tomb. Juliet wakes up to see Romeo dead and stabs herself with his dagger to be with him in death. The tragic outcome underscores the dire result of Friar Lawrence's good-intentioned yet faulty plan.

Themes

In the character of Friar Lawrence, Shakespeare investigates themes of:

- The complexity of love and relationships

- The aftermath of hasty choices

- The conflict between destiny and individual choice

- The influence of advisors and mentors on the lives of others

Character Analysis

Friar Lawrence is usually a symbol of wisdom, mercy, and good will. But his actions also illustrate the fallibility of human wisdom and the perils of interference in other people's lives. His character reminds us that even the best-planned actions can go wrong, resulting in tragic outcomes.

In summary, Friar Lawrence is a vital character in Romeo and Juliet, acting as confidant, advisor, and instigator of the tragic consequences that ensue. His character brings depth and richness to the play, accentuating the subtleties of human relationships and the capriciousness of fate.

Julius Caesar

In William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, fate is instrumental in determining the lives of characters and the dramatic events that emerge. The phenomenon of fate goes hand in hand with the subjects of destiny, fortune, and the supernatural.

Fate as an Unavoidable Force

The characters tend to use fate as an immeasurable power that controls the lives of people. For example, Caesar's well-known line "The Ides of March are come" (Act 3, Scene 1) implies that his fate is sealed and he is unable to alter the course of events. Similarly, Brutus's lines "What means this shouting? I do fear the people, / Chose Caesar for their king" (Act 1, Scene 2) indicate that the destiny of Rome is predetermined.

Soothsayers and Omens

The soothsayers and omens in the play act as harbingers of fate, warning the characters of impending doom. A clear example of this is the soothsayer's warning to Caesar, "Beware the Ides of March" (Act 1, Scene 2). The omens, like the stormy weather and the lioness that appears, foreshadow the tragic events that are about to occur.

Character's Perception of Fate

The characters' perception of fate affects their actions and decisions. For example, Cassius's belief in fate makes him think that their actions are destined, and thus he is right in his conspiracy against Caesar. However, Brutus's complex understanding of fate makes him struggle with the moral dimension of his actions.

Fate and Free Will

The play asks questions about the relationship between fate and free will. Do the characters make their own decisions, or are they pawns in a greater game? The conflict between fate and free will recurs throughout the play, leaving the audience to wonder how much the characters' decisions are really their own.

Overall, fate is an omnipresent force in Julius Caesar that directs the lives of the characters and the tragic outcome. The investigation of fate by the play has significant questions about the nature of destiny, fortune, and the human condition.

Quotations:

• "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves." – Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene 2

    • This quote, uttered by Cassius, implies the conflict between fate and free will. It indicates that we are capable of controlling our destiny, but Shakespeare tends to complicate this ideal through the tragic fates of his characters.

• "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves." – Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene 2

This quote overtly opposes the fatalistic ideology. It states that we have control over what we do and that destiny is not the ultimate power that guides our lives.

Role of free will in Shakespeare's Plays

Free will in Shakespearean plays operates at the opposite end of the scale, Shakespeare also insists a great deal on human agency. Although fate appears to play a strong part in determining the course of events in his tragedies, the choices that characters take—motivated by personal ambition, emotion, or moral principle—are as important. 

In Hamlet, Hamlet's hesitation and inner struggle cause a delay that ultimately brings about his own death. Hamlet continually struggles with his own actions, thinking through the options and weighing what each might have as an effect. The turning point of Hamlet's question is his option to act or not act. In Act 3, Scene 1, he asks himself, "To be, or not to be, that is the question," a questioning about life and death and the likelihood of seizing the reins of his own destiny. In Hamlet's situation, his hesitation and use of inner contemplation cause him to meet his tragic end, demonstrating that free will—particularly the decision to act or postpone action—can greatly affect one's fate.

Free will is a central issue in William Shakespeare's legendary drama, Hamlet. The notion is deeply integrated into the storyline, questioning choice, fate, and moral agency.

Hamlet's Dilemma: A Struggle for Free Will

At the center of the play is Hamlet's tormented battle with his own free will. His father's ghost has disclosed the truth about his murder, and Hamlet is caught between avenging his death and moral values. This conflict within himself is a prime example of the intricacies of exercising free will, as Hamlet struggles with the outcome of his actions.

Fate vs. Free Will

The play tends to confuse the distinction between fate and free will. Hamlet's soliloquy ("To be or not to be") can be interpreted as a philosophical contemplation of the human condition, in which he asks himself whether it is more noble to endure the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune or take arms against a sea of troubles. This soliloquy questions whether our decisions are really our own or if they are predestined by fate.

The Role of External Influences

Shakespeare expertly investigates the influence of external factors on our decisions, which further complicates the notion of free will. For example:

- Hamlet's emotions: His anger, sadness, and betrayal dictate his actions, showing how our emotions can control our decisions.

- The command of the ghost: The ghost's call for revenge instills a sense of duty, indicating the conflict between desire and external pressure.

- Manipulation of Claudius: Claudius's deceptiveness and guile manipulate those who are close to him, showing how other people can influence our decisions.

The Consequences of Free Will

Ultimately, the play illustrates that using free will can have catastrophic consequences. Hamlet's decisions result in disastrous outcomes, including the fatalities of a few innocent actors. This is a reflection of the human condition, where our decisions can have far-reaching and unforeseen impacts.

In Hamlet, Shakespeare subtly examines the intricacies of free will, exposing the delicate dance between individual choice, destiny, and outside forces. The play poses fundamental questions regarding the nature of human agency and the repercussions of our actions, leaving audiences to consider the importance of free will in our own existence.

King Lear's Choices

Aging King Lear's Wrong Choices

Similarly, in King Lear, Lear's own choices, and most notably his quickness in splitting his kingdom and banishing his daughter Cordelia, lead to his tragic fall. His choices, prompted by pride and ignorance, put him into a position where fate appears to have already been established, yet despite the fact that Lear himself chose the events to unfold, the play emphasises how free will, even when used without wisdom, can result in catastrophic outcomes.

In William Shakespeare's tragic play King Lear, the aging King Lear chooses to divide his kingdom among his three daughters, Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia. This is done based on the amount of each daughter can flatter and declare their love for him. This choice kicks off a series of tragic events.

Lear's choices are driven by his desire for flattery and affection, which ultimately leads to his downfall. Here's a breakdown of his choices and their consequences:

1. Division of the Kingdom: Lear decides to divide his kingdom into three parts, intending to give the largest share to the daughter who loves him most. This decision is based on a misguided belief that his daughters' professions of love are genuine.

2. Goneril and Regan's Flattery: Goneril and Regan, Lear's eldest daughters, indulge in excessive assertions of love in order to claim greater portions of the kingdom. Their false flattery deceives Lear, blinded by his eagerness for flattery.

3. Cordelia's Truthfulness: Lear's youngest and truthful daughter, Cordelia, does not indulge in flattery. She advises Lear that she loves him truly and that this cannot be quantified in terms. Lear misunderstands her truthfulness as insincerity and banishes her.

4. Repercussions: Lear's decisions set off a chain of tragic consequences such as:

- Loss of Power: Lear loses control and is ultimately betrayed by Goneril and Regan.

- Cordelia's Banishment: Lear exiles Cordelia, the only daughter who loves him with sincerity.

 - Downfall: Lear's choice ultimately results in his downfall, physically and mentally, as he battles with the repercussions of his decision.

In summary, Lear's decisions are motivated by a need for praise and love that ultimately result in his tragic collapse. His failure to recognize through his daughters' insincere praise and misunderstanding of Cordelia's sincerity create the tragic course of events that transpire.

Quotations

• "Give me that man that is not passion's slave and I will wear him in my heart's core, ay, in my heart of heart." – Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 2

Hamlet's craving for logic and free choice stands in tension with the avalanche of emotions driving him to disaster. This appeals to the thesis of individual accountability in determining the course of his life.

• "When we are born, we cry that we are come to this great stage of fools." – King Lear, Act 4, Scene 6

Lear's observation of life as a "stage of fools" refers to the notion that our lives, despite how hard we attempt to orchestrate them, are still subject to the whims of other forces, but our choices lead to the tragic story.

Dynamics of Fate vs Free-will in Greek Tragedy & Shakespearean Plays

Comparing Shakespeare's Fate and Free Will to Greek Tragedy Shakespeare's use of fate versus free will has some similarities with Greek tragedy but also some differences. Greek tragedians such as Sophocles and Euripides often have characters trapped by fate in a way that appears completely unavoidable. In Oedipus Rex, Oedipus tries to escape the prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother, only to unknowingly fulfill it. The gods, in the guise of the Oracle of Delphi, appear to dictate Oedipus' destiny, regardless of what decisions he makes. The conflict between fate and free will in Greek tragedy is stricter; the gods are the main determiners of fate. Oedipus’ failure to escape his fate highlights the futility of resisting divine will. Similarly, in Antigone, the title character defies King Creon’s decree to bury her brother, believing her actions are in alignment with divine law.

She, too, is doomed by fate, as her defiance leads to her tragic death, showing how human agency is often at odds with an unalterable divine plan. This contrasts with Shakespeare's approach to free will and fate. Although clearly an important role is played by fate, players such as Hamlet, Macbeth, and Lear use their free will to bring about their own demise. Shakespeare appears to indicate that although fate may exert some circumstances over us, our human agency and choice determine what happens in the course of a person's life.

Characters frequently know their destinies, yet it is they who act in accordance with their own flaws and emotions that confirm or contradict their destinies.

Conclusion

In Shakespeare's plays, the conflict between fate and free will is one of the most intriguing parts of his plays. Although the force of fate is usually seen as being inevitable, the decisions of characters do determine their final fates. Shakespeare's characters are not often passive victims of destiny but active agents who decide and act on choices that result either in their downfall or salvation. Against this, we set the Greek tragedy's fatalistic vision of human existence. The Greek tragedy tend to imply that fate is inescapable and that humanity is subject to the whims of the gods, whereas Shakespeare provides a world in which fate and free will walk hand in hand, and human choices are critically important.

Finally, Shakespeare's handling of fate and free will challenges viewers to consider the richness of human existence and how we navigate our own lives.

Additional Readings:

    • Macbeth, Act 1, Scene 3

    • Romeo and Juliet, Prologue

    • Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 1

    • Oedipus Rex, Sophocles

    • Antigone, Sophocles

Madeline Miller's Approach to Greek Mythology in her novel, The Song of Achilles

Troops on their way to attack Troy

MADELINE MILLER'S APPROACH TO GREEK MYTHOLOGY IN THE SONG OF ACHILLES. 

My Short Review of The Song of Achilles

The Song of Achilles |A novel by Madeline Miller