Johnson’s Evaluation of Shakespeare’s Tragedies
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
Comment on Johnson’s evaluation of Shakespeare’s tragedies.
Samuel Johnson’s (1709-1784) “Preface to Shakespeare,” published in 1765, provides a thorough evaluation of William Shakespeare’s (1564-1616) tragedies. Johnson focuses on both the strengths and weaknesses of Shakespeare’s tragedies. Johnson’s insightful commentary reveals his deep appreciation for Shakespeare’s work while maintaining a critical eye on its imperfections.
Strengths of Shakespeare’s Tragedies
Realistic Portrayal of Human Nature: Johnson commends/praises Shakespeare for his authentic depiction of human emotions and experiences. Shakespeare’s tragedies reflect the complexities of human nature. They present characters who are believable and relatable. This realism allows audiences to connect with the characters and their plights on a profound level. Samuel Johnson praises Shakespeare vehemently:
Shakespeare is above all writers, at least above all modern writers, the poet of nature; the poet that holds up to his readers a faithful mirror of manners and of life.
Johnson points out that the passions and actions of Shakespeare’s characters are drawn from life. It makes them universally recognizable. This ability to mirror human nature is what makes Shakespeare’s tragedies enduring and relevant.
Depth of Characterization: One of Shakespeare’s greatest strengths, according to Johnson, is his skill in creating multifaceted characters. In tragedies like “Hamlet,” “Othello,” “Macbeth,” and “King Lear,” the characters exhibit a range of emotions and motivations. Shakespeare’s characters are complex and intriguing. Johnson says about Shakespeare’s characters:
His persons act and speak by the influence of those general passions and principles by which all minds are agitated,
Johnson appreciates how these characters are not mere embodiments of good or evil but are portrayed with a mix of virtues and flaws.
Moral and Philosophical Insights: Johnson acknowledges that Shakespeare’s tragedies offer deep moral and philosophical insights. They explore themes like ambition, jealousy, love, and betrayal. These themes provide valuable lessons about human behavior and ethics. Through the tragic flaws and downfalls of his characters, Shakespeare illustrates the consequences of human weaknesses. The tragic consequences prompt audiences to reflect on their own lives and choices. Johnson says,