Comparative study

Comparative study




























Question –
Treatment of similar concepts in a pair of texts can enrich understanding of context and values. To what extent is this made evident in the texts you have studied?
Human interaction over time has enriched understanding of human conditions however; it has also exposed the darker, irrational impulses. This is evident in William Shakespeare’s Othello, and Anthony Menghalla’s, The Talented Mr. Ripley (TTMR) as they explore the contextual forces that shape the philosophy of badness. Furthermore, the concepts for power identity and manipulation are reoccurring motifs that highlight the similarities and differences between 17th century Renaissance and 20th century America, A key difference between the two situations is importance of military, Othello’s thematic concerns revolve around the duty and life of a solder, whilst power in the 20th century is based upon fame and social status. Together, the two texts reflect upon the nature of evil and how it has manifested itself in two different environments.
The concept of manipulation associated with the metaphysical qualities of a villain has varied over time due to changing contexts and values that have influenced time periods. Shakespeare emphasizes this through the manipulative Iago who embodies traits of a villain and deceives Othello into murdering his own wife. During scene three, the dialogue between Iago and Othello reveal Iago’s subtle hints that Cassio is flirting with Desdemona. “Cassio, my lord!...I cannot think it/That he would steal away so guiltylike” (3.3.38-40). Through the low modality this final blow plants seeds of jealousy that further Iago’s manipulative behaviour. Effectively the manipulative and deceptive facades that dominate Shakespeare’s play are universal and transcend time as an inherent part of human nature. “Virtue? A fig!...Our bodies are our gardens to which our wills are gardeners” (1.3.315-317). Through this analogy, we...

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