Holding a Mirror up to Nature: Shame, Guilt, and Violence in Shakespeare

Shakespeare has been dubbed the greatest psychologist of all time, and this book seeks to prove it by comparing his fictional characters with real-life examples of violent individuals. The authors show how humiliated men justify and commit violence, and how love and restorative justice can prevent it. Shakespeare has much to teach us about the psychological and cultural roots of all violence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Shakespeare, often hailed as the greatest psychologist of all time, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature and psychology. In this captivating book, the authors set out to substantiate this claim by drawing comparisons between Shakespeare's fictional characters and real-life examples of violent individuals, ranging from criminals to political actors. According to Gilligan and Richards, the most significant threat to the survival of humanity lies in the propensity to kill others, even when it leads to the killer's own demise. This volume aims to shed light on how humiliated men, driven by a desire for retribution and revenge, resort to apocryphal violence and political religions to justify and perpetrate violence. By exploring the themes of love, restorative justice, and the psychological and cultural roots of all violence, the authors aim to provide valuable insights into the prevention of such acts.

While the destructive power at our disposal may surpass anything that existed during Shakespeare's time, his profound understanding of the human psyche and the complexities of human behavior continue to resonate deeply. Through the narratives of his characters, Shakespeare offers a profound exploration of the causes and mechanisms of violence, offering valuable lessons that can be applied to our contemporary world.

In conclusion, Shakespeare's unparalleled psychological insights and his ability to portray the human condition with unparalleled depth and complexity make him the greatest psychologist of all time. This book serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and provides a valuable roadmap for preventing violence and promoting peace in our world.

Weight: 282g
Dimension: 151 x 227 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108970396
Edition number: New ed