Violence, Trauma, and Virtus in Shakespeare's Roman Poems and Plays

Violence, Trauma, and Virtus in Shakespeare's Roman Poems and Plays offers a profound exploration of the complex interplay between violence, trauma, and virtue within Shakespeare's Roman works. Through a meticulous analysis, L. Starks-Estes examines how Shakespeare transforms Ovid's poetry in these texts, drawing on psychoanalysis, trauma theory and materialist perspectives.

The Story

Shakespeare’s Roman poems and plays serve as the ground for examining how he uses Ovid to explore violence, trauma and virtus. Starks-Estes argues that these appropriations probe the traumatic effects of aggression and sadomasochism, and the shifting notions of selfhood and masculinity bound up in virtus.

Why Readers Love It

• In-depth literary analysis that bridges classical themes with contemporary issues.
• Thought-provoking insights into the psychological dimensions of Shakespeare's characters.
• A unique perspective that intertwines literary criticism with historical context.

Perfect For

This book is ideal for scholars and students of Shakespeare, as well as those interested in literary theory and criticism. Readers who appreciate a rigorous exploration of the darker themes in literature will find Starks-Estes’ arguments both compelling and enlightening.