Forgiving the Gift: The Philosophy of Generosity in Shakespeare and Marlowe

Forgiving the Gift challenges the tendency to understand gifts as exchanges, negotiations, and circulations and proposes new readings of Renaissance drama that exceed the social practice of gift-giving. It also questions the model of human life from which many contemporary readings grow and addresses questions of how we are to understand literary texts and live with others in the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 267 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2022
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

Rewritten text:

Forgiving the Gift delves into the prevailing tendency to perceive gifts as mere exchanges, negotiations, and circulations. Lawrence explores plays by Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare, drawing upon an early modern belief in the potential and even necessity of radical generosity—gifts that transcend the confines of economy and self-interest.

The prologue begins with a reading of Marlowe's Dr. Faustus, showcasing how the play harmoniously blends the concepts of gift and grace, depicting Faustus's renowned bond as a tool that simultaneously facilitates reciprocal exchange and condemns him.

In the introduction, the author establishes his theoretical framework by engaging in a dialogue with Marcel Mauss's renowned essay, "The Gift." This interplay brings forth two distinct interpretations of gift-giving. The first understanding, as described by Mauss, portrays the gift as a covert form of exchange. While Mauss contrasts the gift economy with the market economy, his portrayal of the gift economy nonetheless undermines his own endeavor to uncover a foundation for social solidarity within it.

The second understanding of gift exchange, derived from the philosophy of Levinas, emphasizes the radical asymmetry of ethical concern. This perspective resonates with literature and philosophy scholars alike, as the text offers original readings of renowned plays such as The Merchant of Venice, Edward II, King Lear, Titus Andronicus, and The Tempest. These readings unveil a generosity that surpasses the customary social practice of gift-giving. Within these plays, extraordinary acts of friendship or filial affection endure even in the face of societal collapse. For instance, Antonio in The Merchant and the title character in Edward II exemplify a friendship characterized by extravagance, marking its excess. On the other hand, Lear's tragic outcome stems from his attempt to surpass societal expectations and norms.

By delving into these plays and their profound exploration of the gift, Forgiving the Gift offers valuable insights into the complexities of human relationships, the power of generosity, and the enduring significance of ethical concerns in our lives.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271092966