How does Johnson defend Shakespeare?
Preface to Shakespeare is a notable literary work by Samuel Johnson. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Preface to 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
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