Titus Andronicus: the war of revenge
William Shakespeare was a prolific playwright who produced over 30 plays and sonnets, leaving a lasting impression on English literature and the world. His works continue to influence modern day culture and inspire generations of artists, actors, and writers. Philip Henslowe mentioned a new play that would stage on January 23, 1594. William Shakespeare inspired a few sources such as Ovid's Metamorphoses and The History of Titus Andronicus, The Renowned Roman General, Newly Translated from the Italian Copy Printed in Rome to write the play. Although Shakespeare inspired these sources, he alternated plot and characteristic properties. Thanks to his unique ability of fiction, Titus Andronicus became a masterpiece which still read today.
Characters
Titus Andronicus
Tamora
Saturninus
Aaron
Marcus Andronicus
Lavinia
Lucius
Bassianus
Chiron
Demetrius
Publius
Quintus
Martius
Historical Background
Titus Andronicus is a tale of revenge set in ancient Rome, inspired by the works of Seneca. It follows the tragic story of Roman general Titus who seeks revenge on his enemies after a brutal war
Overview
The play deals with themes of violence, power, and revenge, and features some of Shakespeare's most gruesome scenes. It has been praised for its intricate plot and criticized for its heavy-handed approach. He sacrifices the eldest son of Tamora, Queen of the Goths, as part of the Roman victory rituals, leading to a vengeful rage in Tamora.
Theatrical Elements
The play deals with themes of violence, power, and revenge, and features some of Shakespeare's most gruesome scenes. It has been praised for its intricate plot and criticized for its heavy-handed approach.
Revenge, loyalty, gender, power, and violence are the main theme of the play. The writers of the Elizabethan time were interested in "Revenge" and it was preferred by audiences. Then, Shakespeare utilized this theme in Titus Andronicus deftly. We can observe the characterization and vengeance between Titus and Aaron. The characterization of Titus influenced me most, for Titus was grave, brave, pitiless and a soldier. He is a Roman general completely. All of the characters in this play were portrayed flawlessly yet Titus and Aaron were more detailed. Aaron is the most important figure of evil and it also is highlighted because Aaron is black, as in "Othello". While Titus represents a Roman general, Aaron represents barbarism. Titus is an aristocratic father who sacrifices his sons for his country, by the same token, barber Aaron is a slave father who strives to protect his son vehemently. Shakespeare created Lear-Coriolanus inspired by Titus, then, Aaron is the heir of Richard III and Edmund.
Although Titus Andronicus is not among Shakespeare's greatest works, it is seen as a play that reflects our age with its dramatic effect and chilling scenes. The play showcases Shakespeare's early experimentation with dramatic techniques and themes that he would later explore more fully in his later tragedies.
