Aspects of villainy in Shakespearean tragedy

Abstract

This dissertation deals with the various aspects of villainy which are present in Shakespeare’s tragedies. It delves into the true nature of villainy and the makings of a wicked character, as well as some of their most human qualities, by a thorough study of the four major villains: Claudius, Iago, Edmund and Macbeth, with other worthy mentions. The first chapter will include an analysis of the central characters, mentioning their motivations, Machiavellian traits and manipulation techniques. While in chapter two, the search for villainous characteristics goes into the domain of the use of language as a means of power, or language which reveals more of the dark, secretive personality of the character. This creates a clearer picture of the role that villainy plays in several plots. In the third and final chapter, the characters are shown from a different angle where they appear to be more than just one-dimensional villains. Characters seem more human as they harbour psychological problems, guilt and sadness, among others. The aim is to discover the features which defines a character as a villain with particular relation to Shakespeare’s tragic works and to prove that despite being fictional, Shakespearean characters are formed from traits belonging to actual people; making them relatable and authentic.