The evolution of the hero from classical epic to skeptical drama
In short: How did we come to define a hero? This lecture explores the lineage of the heroic idiom, tracing its path from ancient mythology to Shakespeare's complex, often skeptical, literary portraits.
Sir Jonathan Bate examines how Shakespeare’s conception of heroism was forged by the classical tradition, specifically the ancient tales of Troy and Virgil’s epic poem, The Aeneid. While these works established the foundational heroic idiom, Bate argues that Shakespeare often approached these ideals with profound skepticism.
The lecture highlights a shift in dramatic focus, noting that in plays like Hamlet and Troilus and Cressida, Shakespeare interrogates the very nature of the heroic ideal rather than simply celebrating it. This exploration provides essential context for understanding the transition from epic tradition to modern character complexity.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Shakespeare's Heroes - Sir Jonathan Bate CBE FBA
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