Tragedy Since 9/11: Reading a World out of Joint

This book offers a cultural analysis of the tragic events of the past two decades with reference to a litany of key dramatic texts, including Aeschylus Oresteia, Euripides Hecuba, Iphigenia in Aulis, Trojan Women, and Bacchae, Homer's Iliad, Ibsens Emperor and Galilean, and Enemy of the People, and Shakespeares Julius Caesar, Macbeth, and King Lear, among others.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

From the trauma of September 11th, through the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, to the aftermath of the Arab Spring and the environmental warning signs of climate change, this book reflects on the crises and terrifying events of the early 21st century and argues that a knowledge of tragedy from the works of Sophocles to Shakespeare to Samuel Beckett can help us understand them. Jennifer Wallace offers a cultural analysis of the tragic events of the past two decades with reference to a litany of key dramatic texts, including Aeschylus' Oresteia, Euripides' Hecuba, Iphigenia in Aulis, Trojan Women, and Bacchae, Homer's Iliad, Ibsen's Emperor and Galilean, and Enemy of the People, and Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Macbeth, and King Lear, among others.

The book explores how these plays and other dramatic works capture the essence of human suffering, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity. Wallace argues that a deep understanding of tragedy can help us to better comprehend the complex challenges we face today and to develop strategies for navigating the uncertain and often dangerous world we live in.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of power and politics in shaping tragic events. Wallace argues that the powerful often exploit the vulnerabilities of the less powerful to achieve their own ends, leading to devastating consequences for those who are affected. She also explores how political systems and institutions can fail to protect individuals from harm and how they can contribute to the perpetuation of injustice and inequality.

Another theme of the book is the impact of trauma on individuals and communities. Wallace argues that the experience of trauma can have profound psychological and emotional effects, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. She also explores how trauma can be passed down from generation to generation, creating a cycle of violence and suffering that can be difficult to break.

The book also examines the role of empathy and compassion in responding to tragedy. Wallace argues that it is important to cultivate empathy and compassion in order to better understand the experiences of others and to develop strategies for promoting social justice and equity. She also explores how art and literature can be used to promote empathy and compassion and to inspire individuals to take action in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, this book offers a powerful and thought-provoking analysis of the tragic events of the past two decades and argues that a knowledge of tragedy from the works of Sophocles to Shakespeare to Samuel Beckett can help us to better understand and respond to the challenges we face today. By exploring the themes of power, politics, trauma, empathy, and compassion, Wallace provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing conversation about the importance of understanding and addressing tragedy in our world.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 210 x 149 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350035621