Subject
Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 -- Philosophy Books
Best books
Delia Salter Bacon
The Philosophy of the Plays of Shakspere Unfolded
"The Philosophy of the Plays of Shakspere Unfolded" by Delia Salter Bacon is a philosophical examination of the works attributed to William Shakespeare, written during the mid-19th century. The text aims to uncover a hidden philosophical system underlying Shakespeare's plays, suggesting that they reflect a deeper intellectual tradition shared with contemporaries like Lord Bacon. The opening of this work introduces the author's pursuit of demonstrating that Shakespeare's plays, often viewed solely through a literary lens, harbor a profound and systematic philosophy. Delia Bacon argues that this philosophy, which encompasses moral, political, and ethical dimensions, is intricately woven into the fabric of the plays. The preface, written by Nathaniel Hawthorne, emphasizes the author's dedication to revealing the complexities and secret narratives behind the writings of Shakespeare and others from that era. Bacon expresses that the Elizabethan context, dominated by political tension and a need for subtlety in expression, shaped the way these philosophical ideas were communicated, and this inquiry is set to unravel those hidden meanings and interconnections.
Jacob Feis
Shakspere and Montaigne An Endeavour to Explain the Tendency of 'Hamlet' from Allusions in Contemporary Works
"Shakspere and Montaigne" by Jacob Feis is a scholarly analysis that explores the philosophical underpinnings and controversies surrounding Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," likely written during the late 19th century. The book examines the connections between Shakespeare’s work and the contemporary ideas presented in the writings of Michel Montaigne, focusing particularly on how these themes might shed light on "Hamlet’s" complex motivations and motifs. The opening of the work sets the stage for an in-depth examination of the relationship between Shakespeare and Montaigne. Feis proposes that "Hamlet" can be better understood through the lens of Montaigne's philosophy, which has generated considerable debate in its time. The author outlines a historical context for the dramatic arts in Elizabethan England, discussing how political and religious controversies influenced Shakespeare's writing. He suggests that "Hamlet" is not only a personal response to the attacks from playwrights like Ben Jonson but also a broader commentary on the philosophical tensions of the period, particularly concerning issues of individualism and morality as championed by Montaigne. This analytical approach promises readers an enlightening journey through the intersections of literature, philosophy, and drama.
J. M. (John Mackinnon) Robertson
Montaigne and Shakspere
"Montaigne and Shakepere" by J. M. Robertson is an analytical work written in the late 19th century. This book explores the influences that the essays of Michel de Montaigne had on the works of William Shakespeare, specifically citing textual parallels and thematic connections between the two influential figures of literature. Robertson seeks to unravel the complexities of Shakespeare's growth as a playwright and philosopher through Montaigne's ideas. The opening of this work discusses the resurgence of Shakespearean studies and the noticeable gap in substantial examination of Montaigne's influence on Shakespeare's plays. Robertson notes that while traces of Montaigne’s ideas can be observed in Shakespeare's works, deeper systematic explorations have been limited and underappreciated. The author references previous scholars and their observations about specific passages in plays such as "The Tempest" and "Hamlet," positing that the philosophical undercurrents found in these texts are enriched by Montaigne's essays. He establishes a foundation for a more comprehensive exploration of how Montaigne’s insights might have shaped Shakespeare's reflections on themes such as human nature, existence, and morality.
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