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Shakespeare's Women, 2004.
An analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of William Shakespeare's female characters.
1,829 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how Shakespeare?s views on women clearly define his plays and how, by using the women as some of the most powerful and stage dominating characters his plays possess, he shows a remarkable gift for breaking down the barriers that held women captive. To many, Shakespeare was a man living in a man?s world, but scratch the surface of those who understood his plays and the man himself, and we can see that Shakespeare was a feminist, and those ideas came out in his plays.
From the Paper
"The patriarchal system was alive and well in Shakespeare?s time, one need only look at some of his female characters like Desdemona and Ophelia to see the system at work. Ophelia, was completely at the mercy of the male figures within her life, is certainly a victim figure. In Hamlet?s treatment of Ophelia, Hamlet waffles and spins between protests of undying love and cruelty, not entirely sure of where his own intentions lay while he is attempting to cope with the news of his father?s murder. Hamlet uses Ophelia as a tool in his revenge plan throughout the play, thus adding more to her role of victim."
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Shakespeare's Women, 2006.
Discusses the roles of Cleopatra and Desdemona in plays by William Shakespeare.
1,245 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
There is a virtual myriad of essays and criticisms concerning the women characters in William Shakespeare's plays. This paper focuses mainly on the role of two of these women - Desdemona from "Othello" and Cleopatra from "Antony and Cleopatra". It also briefly discusses other characters such as Calpurnia and Portia. The paper concludes that of all his female characters, Shakespeare's Cleopatra is certainly at the top of the list in qualities of intelligence, power, seductiveness, aggression and assertiveness.
From the Paper
"Desdemona in "Othello," appears on the surface as a typical weak female who is totally submissive to her husband, however she is not truly typically meek. She is actually quite broad minded and assertive, and seems to have no problem in standing up to Othello's jealousy or using her feminine wiles to persuade her husband to forgive Cassio. When Othello strikes her, shouting, "Devil," Desdemona responds to him, saying, "I have not deserved this" (Othello pp)."
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Shakespeare?s Women, 2002.
A discussion of the strong female characters in William Shakespeare?s plays, ?The Merchant of Venice? and ?The Taming the Shrew.?
1,408 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how both the characters of Portia and Katherine in William Shakespeare?s plays, ?The Merchant of Venice? and ?The Taming the Shrew" are intelligent women who each goes through a character metamorphosis. It looks at how just as Portia transformed from submissiveness to a role of command, Katherine's transformation took the opposite turn. She submitted her independence and thus found her true self. It shows how both women were miserable in the beginning of the plays, Portia from obeying and Katherine from disobeying and how by swinging the pendulum, each woman found a balance and triumphed in their feminine roles.
From the Paper
"Katherine in ?Taming of the Shrew? is perhaps Shakespeare most famous female character. She and Portia are opposite in initial character. Katherine is ill-tempered and scoffs at obedience. She is prone to tantrums and physical attacks on the victims of her rage. Just as Portia is miserable from obedience despite her charm, Katherine too is unhappy, despite her foul disposition. Katherine?s unpleasant nature may stem from fear of her own feminine desires and feelings of inadequacy. She may also be anxious that she will never marry, thus sealing her fate and her role in society as the maiden daughter. Katherine is intelligent and her spirit surely recoils at the thought of such a fate. In fact Katherine?s spirit seems out of place amid an era when women were considered nothing more than property."
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Austen and Shakespeare's Headstrong Women, 2006.
A comparison and contrast between Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" and William Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew".
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 2 sources, APA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews, compares and contrasts the headstrong women presented in Jane Austen's novel "Pride and Prejudice" and Shakespeare's play "Taming of the Shrew." The paper first discusses the different intentions of the two authors, explaining that "Pride and Prejudice" was a sort of comedy of manners, written by a maiden lady, while "The Taming of the Shrew" was intended for the bawdy audience of the Globe Theatre, willing to get a good laugh at the sight of a prospective suitor paddling his prospective bride. The paper looks at the characters of Elizabeth -- who was quite proper -- and Katharina, who was not.
From the Paper
"Elizabeth Bennet would never say those words. She might smile and offer to honor and obey her wedding vows. She might DO what Kate SAYS, but it simply would not be in her character to be really that subservient. While Shakespeare literally changes his "shrew" into a doting wife, definitely the "weaker sex", Elizabeth will be sure to uphold her husband's profession and demeanor, and no doubt, keep his books. These two opinionated people will find a common, middle ground, and their wit and demeanor will surely bring them happiness and a large family (which Darcy will admire from afar) Kate, it seems to me, upon bearing children, will raucously demand a wet nurse at once. Her act of obedience is more of a temporary expedient, from my point of view."
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Shakespeare'S Women, 2003.
Examines the characterization of women in two plays.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 4 sources, $ 55.95
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Abstract
Analyzes the major female characters in "Hamlet" and "King Lear". Examines the relationship of these women to the tragic hero of each drama. Discusses the psychology of the female characters and the tragic decline of Hamlet and Lear.
From the Paper
"This research examines the characterization of women in Shakespeare's Hamlet and King Lear as a presentation of an apocalyptic vision embedded in the tragic scheme of action. It will be argued that in each of the plays, different as they and their respect..."
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Women in Shakespeare's Tragedies, 2008.
A proposal for a project to study the representation of women in Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" and "Othello".
940 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 34 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the project will be a detailed analysis of two works by William Shakespeare, "Othello" and "Romeo and Juliet", focusing primarily on the feminist and philosophical elements of the two plays, as well as the significance of the historical context in which they were written. The author points out that feminists, who are preoccupied with the commentary being made in Shakespeare's plays concerning women, question whether his representations of women truly reflect reality. The paper includes an outline of the method by which the project will be completed.
Table of Contents:
Project Overview
Subject to be Studied
Intended Outcomes
Learning Objectives
Detailed Work Plan
Project Outline
Method
Literary Resources
On-Line Resources
Faculty Supervisor's Role
Proposed Timetable
From the Paper
"The project proposes to examine the genius of Shakespeare as a dramatist who possessed a deep psychological understanding of women and who usually was able to anticipate a feminist perspective on women's issues and roles. Being a male author during the Elizabethan period, Shakespeare exhibited profound insights into the psyche of his female characters. Desdemona is unafraid to confront her father and is fascinated by the violent aspect of life yet she is also incapable of taking any real action to resolve her situation."
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The Triumphant Fruition of Women in Shakespeare, 2006.
An analysis of women in "Othello", "Cymbeline" and "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare and their relationships with their leading men.
2,944 words (approx. 11.8 pages), 18 sources, MLA, $ 87.95
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Abstract
This paper focuses on William Shakespeare's use of women in his plays. It shows how Shakespeare chose to include women such as Lady Macbeth, Desdemona and Imogen as counterparts to the male protagonists often guiding the play. It describes the roles played by Lady Macbeth, Desdemona and Imogen and how they are necessary to not only maintain the flow of the play, but often to coerce their male counterparts into extreme behavior. The paper focuses on the strength and abilities of these women, deriving a logical conclusion as to why Shakespeare may have given them such great importance.
From the Paper
"English poet, playwright and actor, William Shakespeare, bestowed upon the world a canon of literature that has earned him recognition as the greatest playwright of all time. Through his literary genius, Shakespeare created some of the most famous literary works studied across the globe. His methodical and artistic nature provided an enhanced view of our world through imitation and a means by which issues such as race, class and gender could be transcended. Shakespeare's creative efforts encouraged cultural influence allowing him to attain this profound appreciation that no other author has rivaled. His ability to captivate audiences in numerous languages has allowed him to remain the "greatest playwright of all time." Time after time, William Shakespeare proved himself to be the "soul of the age"(Jonson), providing works that imitated real life, while incorporating lyrical images that transcended this Elizabethan Era literature and become contemporary in "all time"(Jonson). His writing often combines an efficient use of symbolic messages, facets of British and Roman history, romance, revenge tragedy, comedy and myth. The versatility of Shakespeare's prose from one literary piece to the next seems to be central to his success. The brilliance of William Shakespeare is exposed in his dynamic ability to write and perform the greatest theatrical works the world has ever experienced."
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Role of Women in Shakespeare, 2002.
This paper examines how women were portrayed in the many different works by William Shakespeare.
1,305 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper is a discussion of Shakespeare's portrayal of women in his many different works. The author discusses how the female characters are portrayed in several of Shakespeares plays. In "Henry VI," the woman's placed is portrayed as being in the home, while in "Macbeth," Lady Macbeth's influence declines to the point where she becomes a nervous wreck. In "The Tempest," the heroine Miranda takes all of her cues from the male character, in "Hamlet" a women's involvement in political matters is suggested to be dangerous and in "The Taming of the Shrew," women who were beaten or treated badly by their husband were powerless to speak out against this abuse. The author uses many different sources to support their thesis that Shakespeare did not intentionally portray women in a negative light, but his works should be viewed as being a reflection of the world around him.
From the Paper
"In ?The Tempest,? Tarqfrler writes that the heroine, Miranda, again is portrayed as a ?conventional woman? (Tarqfrler pg). Although Shakespeare give her a ?bright and cheerful nature? filled with kindness and compassion, ?she is also oppressed by the male society?a woman who has none of the exaggerated affectations of social rules and timid conventions? (Tarqfrler pg). Shakespeare?s male representative, Prospero, trains her in the essential of life, such as ?speech, dress, obedience, gentleness and modesty? (Tarqfrler pg). Miranda is na?ve of the world?s social structure, the protocol of aristocracy, moreover, she had no clue as to her place in the scheme of things (Tarqfrler pg). So although, her character is praised for its naivete and beauty, ?she lacks profound intellectual and moral content? (Tarqfrler pg). Tarqfrler cites the critic Mrs. Jameson, saying, ?She says that beautified nonsense existing in a charming manner does not constitute life. And for this reason Miranda disappoints us considerably. Miranda is a puppet and she lacks the quality and capability of her father. She is guided by Prospero, especially, in her ?love affair?? (Tarqfrler pg)."
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Women As Portrayed by Shakespeare and Spenser, 2004.
Compares the different ways in which Shakespeare and Spenser expressed themselves regarding women and love.
1,346 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
By examining several of Shakespeare's sonnets and Spenser's "Epithalamion", this paper compares how both poets discuss their feelings about women and love. The paper contends that, while Shakespeare loved women openly and honestly, Spenser idolized his love. Examples from the writings of both poets are used to support this contention.
From the Paper
"Poetry is what captures the emotions of people like William Shakespeare and Edmond Spencer. These two men express themselves through their poetry. In several poems they discuss their feelings about women and love. While both men are very capable of loving a woman, they love them in entirely different ways. "
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Women in Shakespeare Plays, 2002.
A discussion of the different roles of women in William Shakespeare's plays from young innocent girls to the phenomenon of cross-dressing in the comedies.
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 1 source, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper is about the position of women in Shakespeare's plays, specifically "As You Like It","Merchant of Venice","Coriolanus", and "Hamlet". It discusses how his female characters separate out into two different groups: young innocent girls approaching marriage, and older widows whom political ambition has gotten the better of. The phenomenon of cross-dressing in the comedies is addressed, and the conclusion states firmly that the marital status of any particular Shakespearian woman is a good indicator of her moral worth.
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Women in Shakespeare?s Times, 2002.
An analysis of the character Kate, in William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew" and a reflection of the role of women in society.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 57.95
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Abstract
The paper shows that despite the fact that a woman ruled England in the time that William Shakespeare lived, the place of women in renaissance society was limited to specific rules and limitations, guided by lessons of virtue and demure conduct. By examining Kate in Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew", the paper discusses how she represents the way women of her temperament would be treated in Shakespeare's era - she would be broken of her waggish ways and learn decorum, humility and essentially her lowly place.
From the Paper
"While people today are allowed a greater range of acceptable personality traits in Shakespeare's time, there were greater limits place on how one manifested him or herself in the world; however the restraints placed on people doesn't mean that different personality types didn't emerge. As we know from modern psychology, personality is developed as a way to meet ones needs and despite how society might wish to limit expressions of those needs, personalities will develop independent of our best effort to control them. Women in seventeenth century England were not all of one mind or of one action. And that showed throughout Shakespeare's work."
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The Restricted Women of Shakespeare's "Othello", 2005.
Examines the characters of Desdemona and Emilia in "Othello" by William Shakespeare and argues how the violence imposed upon them by their husbands is a social statement of the women's restrained state in society.
1,723 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This essay looks at marriage as a patriarchal institution, and shows how the violence that occurs against Desdemona and Emilia in "Othello" by William Shakespeare infers the dominance that men hold over women. The essay also looks at the dominant views about femininity, as expressed by Iago, and shows how these stereotypes dictate the fate of Desdemona and Emilia.
From the Paper
"Othello uses words like "greedy" and "devour" to illustrate how Desdemona hungered for him and chased after him. Othello does fear Desdemona will leave him once her curiosity is quenched, as he expresses through lines "She loved me for the dangers I had passed. And I loved her that she did pity them" (I.iii 165-167). In these lines, Othello shows through the use of the past tense and suggestive language that he knows Desdemona loves him for his exoticness, but that the thrill of it may soon wear off as the dangers dwindle."
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Women in Shakespeare's Plays, 2002.
An analysis of women as reflected in father-daughter relationships in Shakespeare's plays.
2,065 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 0 sources, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper focuses on the importance of the women's roles in the plays Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Othello. Particularly, the relationship between the woman and their fathers is analyzed in this paper. The father-daughter relationship that this paper focuses on is the relationship between pairs of characters in the plays mentioned above: Lord Capulet and Juliet (Romeo and Juliet), Polonius and Ophelia (Hamlet), and Brabantio and Desdemona (Othello). Each character is evaluated according to their interaction not only with other people, but most importantly their interaction with each other. An analysis on the effect of woman roles in contributing to the tragedy that happened in the play is also discussed.
From the Paper
"Women in many of Shakespeare?s plays establish their own identity in the story through a series of interaction with various characters in the play. Aside from their roles as a woman and a wife or lover to the main characters of Shakespearean plays, the author presents another side of the woman's character through a reflection of the existing father and daughter relationship in the story. If women were regarded as "goddess" by their husbands/lovers, their relationships with their fathers present another part of their persona, and each of them possesses unique characteristics that make their roles in the story memorable. "
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Women in Shakespeare?s Plays, 2004.
This paper discusses women in three Shakespearean plays as presented in the film versions. These include Kenneth Branagh's ?Much Ado about Nothing?, Trevor Dunn?s ?Twelfth Night?, and Baz Luhrman?s ?Romeo and Juliet?.
2,440 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that women play almost every conceivable role in Shakespeare?s plays; however, women cannot be the hero. The author points out that Shakespeare?s plays treat women as a piece of "goods", not worth having if they are not virgins, which was the attitude of the time in which the plays were written. The paper relates that Shakespeare symbolizes Juliet's youth in a display of numerological virtuosity designed to impress upon his audience and readers her unreadiness for adulthood and its attendant complexities.
From the Paper
"In "Much Ado About Nothing" the kind of love that Shakespeare chooses to display is the more realistic kind of love that is displayed more often in society around us. This is shown in the couple of Benedick and Beatrice. These two quick wits are constantly bickering and at each other?s throats, until they are tricked by their friends into each believe the other loves them. At this, all of their criticisms of love and claims to remain unmarried until death go right out the window. Suddenly, they are seized by a desire to be with each other, and their true feelings come out. It shows how love actually works in real life."
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Women in Shakespeare and the Terrible Price of Love, 2006.
A comparison between Ophelia and Hermione's death scenes in works by William Shakespeare.
1,454 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a comparison of female victimization in two of Shakespeare's most renowned plays, "Hamlet" and "The Winter's Tale". By presenting a detailed description of Ophelia and Hermione's dying scenes, a thorough analysis of their characters is obtained, and the role of women in general in Shakespeare's plays is given extensive thought.
From the Paper
"The main difference between Hermione's death scene and Ophelia's is the sheer publicity of Hermione's situation, as opposed to the total seclusion and privacy with which Ophelia's death occurred. If in the first scene we find Ophelia alone, singing, reveling in the silence (also portrayed by the still water) and slowly fading out of life, Hermione's scene communicates the exact opposite. A queen unrightfully reduced to a prisoner, Hermione finds herself amidst officers, guards and lords, all of whom will be exposed to a private issue between her and her husband."
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