The Philosopher's Toothache: Embodied Stoicism in Early Modern English Drama

The Philosophers' Toothache argues that early modern Stoicism was a radical mode of performance, infused into the complex theatrical culture of early modern England through plays by William Shakespeare, Cyril Tourneur, and John Marston. It recovers a vital dimension lost in reductive portrayals of the Stoics by early modern writers and contemporary scholars, highlighting Stoic virtues like unpredictability, indifference, vulnerability, and dependence that can inspire responsible public action.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Northwestern University Press

The Philosophers Toothache presents a compelling argument that early modern Stoicism constituted a revolutionary approach to performance. Stoicism, characterized by its emphasis on bodily sensations, imagined spectatorship, and regular mental and physical exercise, emerges as a "way of life," a collection of habits and practices. Rather than adhering to doctrinal beliefs, Stoicism revolves around practical behavior. Drawing from insights in classical philosophy and performance studies, Donovan Sherman contends that Stoicism permeated the intricate theatrical culture of early modern England. Plays written and performed during this period brought Stoic exercises to life, teaching audiences to cultivate virtues such as self-awareness, creativity, and moral fortitude. By highlighting Stoicism's embodied nature, Sherman reclaims a vital dimension often overlooked in reductive portrayals of the Stoics by early modern writers and contemporary scholars alike.

The Philosophers Toothache includes readings of dramatic works by renowned playwrights such as William Shakespeare, Cyril Tourneur, and John Marston, alongside examinations of early modern adaptations of classical Stoics (Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius) and Neo-Stoics like Justus Lipsius. These plays exemplify Stoic virtues such as unpredictability, indifference, vulnerability, and dependence, which are often perceived as negative but can also inspire a renewed sense of responsible public action.

Through its exploration of the intersection of Stoicism, theater, and performance, The Philosophers Toothache offers a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of early modern culture. It challenges us to reconsider the traditional understanding of Stoicism as merely a philosophical system and emphasizes its profound impact on the artistic and cultural expressions of the time. By delving into the theatrical representations of Stoic principles, this book provides valuable insights into the ways in which individuals sought to live virtuous and meaningful lives in the face of adversity.

Weight: 333g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780810144156