How does Johnson defend Shakespeare?

Answer

How does Johnson defend Shakespeare against the charge of violating the three unities? 

In his “Preface to Shakespeare,” published in 1765, Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) provides a robust defense of Shakespeare against the charge of violating the three classical unities: time, place, and action. These unities were guidelines derived from Aristotle’s “Poetics,” which many critics in Johnson’s time believed were essential for a well-structured play. However, Johnson argues that Shakespeare’s greatness transcends these rules.

Understanding the Three Unities

• Unity of Time: This unity suggests that the play’s events should occur within a 24-hour period.
• Unity of Place: This requires that the play’s action take place in a single location.
• Unity of Action: This mandates that a play should have one main plot without any subplots.

Johnson’s Defense

Johnson claims that with Shakespeare’s histories, the unities of time, place, and action are largely irrelevant since, in his plays,

the changes of action be so prepared as to be understood, that the incidents be various and affecting, and the characters consistent, natural and distinct. No other unity is intended, and therefore none is to be sought.

Shakespeare’s Focus on Human Nature: Johnson argues that Shakespeare’s primary strength lies in his portrayal of human nature and emotions. Shakespeare’s characters and their interactions are so compelling and realistic that they resonate with audiences regardless of the play’s adherence to the unities.

He believes that Shakespeare’s ability to depict humane characters is more valuable than strict adherence to arbitrary rules. Moreover, Johnson argues that real life does not conform to the unities, so it is unreasonable to expect plays to do so.

The Purpose of Drama is to Please and Instruct: Johnson suggests that the main purpose of drama is to please and instruct. Shakespeare’s plays achieve this by engaging the audience emotionally and intellectually, which is more important than following the unities.

The unities of time and place are not essential to a just drama, that though they may sometimes conduce to pleasure, they are always to be sacrificed to the nobler beauties of variety and instruction 

He emphasizes that Shakespeare’s works provide moral lessons and insights into human nature, which fulfill the educational aspect of drama.

Allows Flexibility and Variety: Johnson points out that Shakespeare’s disregard for the unities allows for greater flexibility and variety in his storytelling. By not being confined to a single time, place, or action, Shakespeare can explore a broader range of themes and situations. This flexibility enables Shakespeare to create complex plots and subplots that enrich the narrative.

Addressing Specific Criticisms

Unity of Time: Johnson explains that compressing complex stories into a 24-hour period can be unrealistic and limit the scope of the narrative. Shakespeare’s willingness to span longer periods allows for more elaborate and believable plots.

Unity of Place: Limiting a play to a single location can be restrictive. Shakespeare’s use of multiple settings enhances the drama and allows for a richer exploration of different environments and their impact on the characters.

Unity of Action: Johnson defends Shakespeare’s use of subplots by highlighting how they complement the main plot and add depth to the story. Subplots often provide contrast, reinforce themes, and develop secondary characters. Shakespeare’s violation of the unity of action makes the play more engaging.

In conclusion, Johnson’s defense of Shakespeare against the charge of violating the three unities is rooted in his belief that the true purpose of drama is to please and instruct. He argues that Shakespeare’s genius lies in his ability to achieve his purpose through realistic characters, flexible storytelling, and emotional depth.