The Exploration of Barriers to Fulfillment of Desire in Shakespeare's Comedies

How did Shakespeare treat the barriers to fulfillment of desire in comedies?

What are the common barriers Shakespeare addressed in his comedies? How did he explore and challenge these barriers?

Answer:

Shakespeare treated the barriers to fulfillment of desire in his comedies through exploring social hierarchy, misunderstandings, and mistaken identities.

Shakespeare's comedies often revolve around the theme of desire and the obstacles that characters face in achieving their desires. One common barrier he addressed is the social hierarchy, where characters from different classes or backgrounds encounter challenges in pursuing their desires. For example, in the play 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' the characters Hermia and Lysander face opposition from Hermia's father, Egeus, who wants her to marry Demetrius. This clash of social status creates tension and obstacles for the young lovers to overcome in order to be together.

In addition to social hierarchy, Shakespeare also used misunderstandings and mistaken identities as barriers to fulfillment of desire in his comedies. These comedic devices create confusion and chaos, forcing characters to navigate through misunderstandings and miscommunication to achieve their goals. This adds layers of complexity and humor to the storyline, as characters must overcome these obstacles to reach their desired outcome.

By exploring these barriers such as social hierarchy, misunderstandings, and mistaken identities, Shakespeare adds depth and richness to his comedies, making them not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. These themes continue to resonate with audiences today, showcasing the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's works.