The Inclusion of Historical, Cultural, and Religious Influences in the Themes and Works of Walt Whitman, William Shakespeare and William Golding
Number of pages:
8
ABSTRACT:
This is an 8 page paper on the themes and influences on the works of Walt Whitman, William Shakespeare and William Golding. An introductory outline is included. American poet Walt Whitman, British playwright William Shakespeare and British writer William Golding all manage to include important historical, cultural, religious and societal influences in the themes within their writing. Whitman who was greatly distressed over the political situation and destructiveness of the American Civil War in the 19th century included these concerns in his collection of war poems entitled “Drum Taps” which portrayed not only the excitement during the recruitment stages but also the description and compassion felt for those who were injured or dying as a result of the war. William Shakespeare who wrote during the late 16th and early 17th centuries depicted a somewhat different societal theme evident at the time in his play “The Merchant of Venice” which portrayed the views and attitudes towards Jews in Elizabethan England. The theme of the conflict which existed between the Christians and Jews is reflected in the Jew Shylock portrayed as a villain, a common portrayal for the Jews at that time. Lastly, William Golding in his novel “The Lord of the Flies” (1954) reveals the theme of the horrors of war and the darkness which can overcome a man’s character through the loss of civilization in which not even children can escape; no doubt as a reflection of his own experiences and involvement during World War II.
Bibliography lists 10 sources.
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