Johnson’s Evaluation of Shakespeare’s Tragedies

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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,

His drama is the mirror of life; and he who has contemplated him, in all the mutation of his designs, has seen the world in its variety.

Emotional Impact: Shakespeare’s tragedies are known for their powerful emotional impact. Johnson highlights the playwright’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from pity and fear to horror and sorrow.

Criticisms of Shakespeare’s Tragedies

Disregard for Classical Unities: Johnson criticizes Shakespeare for not adhering to the classical unities of time, place, and action, which were considered essential in the structure of classical drama. These unities require that a play’s action occurs within a single day, in one location, and follows one main plot without subplots.

However, Johnson also defends Shakespeare by arguing that the violation of these unities does not diminish the overall impact of his plays. He believes that Shakespeare’s genius lies in his ability to transcend these structural constraints and still create compelling drama.

Occasional Lack of Coherence: Johnson points out that some of Shakespeare’s plots lack coherence and logical consistency. There are moments when the sequence of events seems unconvincing or the motivations of characters unclear. Johnson argues,

The plots are often so loosely formed, that a very slight consideration may improve them;

Despite this, Johnson asserts that these flaws are overshadowed by the overall excellence of the plays.

Use of Low Humor: Another criticism Johnson has is Shakespeare’s inclusion of low humor and puns, even in serious and tragic contexts. He feels that this can detract from the dignity and gravity of the plays.

In conclusion, Johnson’s evaluation of Shakespeare’s tragedies is both appreciative and critical. He recognizes Shakespeare’s unparalleled ability to portray human nature and evoke powerful emotions. At the same time, he does not shy away from pointing out the playwright’s occasional disregard for classical structure, lack of coherence, and use of low humor.