Shakespeare and Machiavelli (Studies in Renaissance Literature, 9) (Volume 9) ISBN-13: 9780859917643

ISBN-13: 9780859917643

Binding: Hardcover

Author: Roe, Prof John

Details: A detailed comparison of Machiavelli with Shakespeare, grounded in their common use of rhetoric.

Although the question of Machiavellian influence on Shakespeare has been thoroughly debated, this book represents the first attempt to compare the two authors in detail. The playwright and the political philosopher share a commonground, a fascination with the motives and morality of political action, which makes for remarkable similarities in their presentation of the subject. In his deploying of the argument, the author of Il Principe emerges as a dramatic writer, like his English counterpart. The book, while taking in an obvious “Machiavel” figure such as Richard III, considers Machiavelli in relation to Shakespeares depiction of more conventionally noble princes such as HenryV, together with other monarchs from the Henriad – Richard II and Henry IV – as well as King John. Though the Shakespearean focus falls on the histories, tragic heroes such as Hamlet and Macbeth also receive attention. The study concludes with two chapters on the Roman plays and assesses Shakespeares representation of the problem of conscience (Julius Caesar) and magnanimity (Antony and Cleopatra) in the light of Machiavellis republicanism.

JOHN ROE is Senior Lecturer at the University of York.

Release Date: 01-03-2002

Package Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.4 x 0.7 inches

Languages: English

Number Of Pages: 232