The Art of Shakspere, as Revealed by Himself
The work explores the depth and complexity of Shakespeare's artistry, arguing that his genius lies not only in his conscious intentions but also in the unconscious truths embedded within his plays. It posits that while commentators may uncover meanings beyond what Shakespeare intended, this does not diminish the integrity of his work. The author emphasizes that an artist's creations can possess layers of meaning that the creator may not fully recognize, suggesting that Shakespeare's art is a harmonious blend of conscious and unconscious elements. Through various examples, the text illustrates how Shakespeare's characters and narratives reflect profound human truths and artistic principles. The author analyzes specific passages from Shakespeare's plays, highlighting the intricate relationships between character actions, dialogue, and thematic elements. The discussion includes the significance of names, the interplay of emotions, and the moral lessons conveyed through the characters' journeys. Ultimately, the work asserts that Shakespeare's ability to capture the essence of human experience, combined with his mastery of dramatic form, results in a body of work that resonates with audiences on multiple levels, revealing the profound connections between art, life, and the human condition.
By George MacDonald · First published 1875 · Genre: Literary Criticism, Philosophy, Essay · 8,918 words
First lines
[Footnote: 1863.]
Who taught you this? I learn'd it out of women's faces. _Winter's Tale_, Act ii. scene 1.
What this Textopian page supports
The Art of Shakspere, as Revealed by Himself is listed on Textopian as an essay by George MacDonald, dated 1875 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1875 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Criticism, Philosophy, Essay, Non-fiction, Poetry Analysis
- Length: 8,918 words
- Structure: 1 section, 117 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- The Shakespeare Memorial by G. K. Chesterton
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Genres
- Literary Criticism — The book analyzes and interprets the works of Shakespeare, focusing on artistic elements and themes.
- Philosophy — It explores philosophical ideas about art, creation, and the unconscious truths in literature.
- Essay — The work is structured as a reflective and analytical essay on Shakespeare's artistry.
- Non-fiction — The book is a factual exploration of Shakespeare's works, rather than a fictional narrative.
Tags
Shakespeare · literary analysis · biography · theater · drama · poetry · Elizabethan era · playwright · character study · historical context · literary criticism · influence