Shakespeare’s Influence on the Perception of Insanity

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Updated: Dec 05, 2024
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2021/03/01
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Master character development defines Shakespeare's extensive body of work, creating history's most memorable dramatic figures.These characters often exhibited complex motivations behind their actions and thoughts, offering a new perspective on what it meant to be “insane.” Through these nuanced portrayals, Shakespeare, utilizing his literary prowess and deep understanding of the human psyche, significantly shaped Western culture’s perception of insanity, transforming it from a purely negative label to a condition that could be explored and understood.

Understanding Insanity

It is important to recognize that insanity is often associated with individuals experiencing some form of mental disturbance at a point in their lives.

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These impairments, while originating within the mind, can manifest through a person’s actions, such as engaging in self-harm or making questionable decisions. In this context, insanity can be viewed as a natural aspect of human life. Before Shakespeare’s transformative influence, the Renaissance era was marked by archaic and often brutal treatments for mental illness. As noted by Aleksandar Dimitrijevic, “Every description, diagnosis, and therapy that happened before [the 1820s] has been considered ‘pre-scientific’ or outdated.” This uncertainty, coupled with a lack of knowledge, led to erroneous and severe treatment methods. According to Diane Dreher Ph.D., treatments during this period included emetics, laxatives, and even bloodletting, reflecting the period's misguided and often cruel approaches.

These historical misconceptions reveal a societal fear and misunderstanding of mental illness. Over time, however, perceptions began to shift, leading to a more enlightened understanding of mental disorders. This shift coincided with Shakespeare’s era, during which he penned some of the most celebrated plays in history, featuring characters grappling with madness.

Shakespeare's Complex Characters

One of Shakespeare’s most well-developed characters is King Lear, whose descent into madness is a central theme of the play. Lear’s insanity is triggered by his poor decision-making, particularly his choice to divide his kingdom among his daughters based on their flattery. When Cordelia, his honest daughter, fails to flatter him excessively, he disowns her, a decision that haunts him throughout the play. Despite Lear’s earlier errors, readers sympathize with him, especially when he pleads, “O, let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven! Keep me in temper; I would not be mad!” (Act 1, Scene 5, 44-45). Shakespeare masterfully shifts the audience’s perception of Lear from one of reproach to one of understanding and empathy. This portrayal underscores the idea that insanity can be influenced by both internal mental states and external circumstances.

Historically, many leaders exhibited traits of madness, akin to King Lear. Roman Emperor Caligula, for instance, is infamous for his madness, sadism, and perversion. A. T. Sandison notes that Caligula’s actions likely stemmed from personal trauma, though societal attitudes at the time lacked empathy. In contrast, Shakespeare’s nuanced portrayals encourage a more sympathetic understanding of mental illness. Post-Shakespeare, the world has seen many leaders with mental health struggles, such as Adolf Hitler. His madness, characterized by his genocidal actions and megalomania, can be traced back to personal failures and tragedies, like his rejection from art school and his mother’s death from cancer. These factors, while not justifying his actions, offer insight into his psychological state. Shakespeare’s works prompt audiences to ask “what if” questions, exploring how different life circumstances might have altered individuals’ paths.

Dehumanization and Objectification

Shakespeare also explores the theme of dehumanization through characters like Ophelia in "Hamlet." Ophelia’s insanity is exacerbated by external factors, particularly her manipulation by others. Unlike King Lear, Ophelia is not in control of her fate; she is objectified and used as a tool by those around her. Yi-Chi Chen describes her as “Polonius’ timid daughter who lacks the will of her own.” This objectification underscores the detrimental effects of dehumanization, leading to her tragic end. This theme resonates with societal issues, such as the historical treatment of prostitutes as inherently immoral individuals. In the 16th century, Pope Sixtus V even imposed the death penalty for prostitution. However, the experiences of individuals like Sabrinna Valisce, who turned to prostitution out of necessity, challenge these stereotypes. Her story illustrates how objectification and dehumanization can lead to rash decisions, mirroring Ophelia’s descent into madness.

Jealousy and Paranoia

Shakespeare’s play "Othello" delves into the destructive nature of jealousy. Othello, not inherently jealous, is manipulated by Iago into believing his wife Desdemona is unfaithful. This manipulation drives him to madness, resulting in tragedy. Othello’s story is reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials, where hysteria and fear led to the persecution of innocent people. The trials were fueled by societal insecurities, such as fear of Native American attacks and smallpox outbreaks. This historical parallel highlights the power of fear and suspicion to warp judgment. In modern times, Othello’s experiences have informed the understanding of a psychiatric condition known as Othello syndrome, characterized by pathological jealousy. Cases of this syndrome, such as a man who murdered his wife due to obsessive suspicions, demonstrate the real-world implications of Shakespeare’s themes.

Progress in Mental Health Treatment

Compared to the Elizabethan era, contemporary treatments for mental illness are far more advanced and humane. Modern approaches, including psychotherapy, medication, and support groups, address mental health issues directly, rather than compounding them with physical ailments. Shakespeare, although not a psychologist, possessed an acute awareness of human behavior, which he masterfully depicted in his plays. His realistic portrayals have left an indelible mark on literature and society, fostering a deeper understanding of mental illness. In conclusion, Shakespeare played a pivotal role in transforming the perception of mental illness from a misunderstood condition to one that is examined and empathized with. His works continue to influence how we perceive and address mental health issues today.

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Shakespeare's Influence on the Perception of Insanity. (2021, Mar 01). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/insanity-within-the-plays-of-william-shakespeare/