The Absence that RRESENTS: Critical Analysis of Shakespearean Woman

Abstract

This study examines, with critical insight, the gender portrayal in the plays of William Shakespeare. These plays were written under the Elizabethan patriarchal regime, in which women were legally, socially and culturally constrained; yet Shakespeare's female characters frequently possess a degree of genius, agency and emotional complexity. This study relies on the qualitative research approach that draws from the interpretive analysis of language, dialogue, and dramatic structure, particularly the construction, challenge, and/or subversion of gender roles. The research focuses on the means used by Shakespeare to achieve female empowerment through cross-dressing, wit, negotiation of social expectations and conscious enactment of femininity as well as the harshest penalties met out to women in male dominated societies. The researchers analysed the sample of six plays (including comedies and tragedies) and observed that the comedic characters use disguise as a means of asserting autonomy and influence; while the characters of the tragedies expose the perils of patriarchy. The findings indicate that Shakespearean woman is an offspring of patriarchal era where female victimization, though sometimes invisible, is pervasive in political hierarchies. The only source for salvation is combating with the male patriarchy by achieving their own stature, though in disguise. Hnece, Shakespeare’s attitude towards women is complicated but progressive by adjusting the patriarchal noms of Elizabethan era and proposing for adoption of an innovative technique/strategy for survival. This research highlights the continued importance of Shakespeare's works in modern debates on gender, providing a glimpse into how literature can capture, challenge, and influence the cultural norms.  

Keywords: Shakespeare, gender roles, Elizabethan era, comedies, tragedies