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Oppressive Gender Norms Uncovering In Renaissance Society

1101 Words5 Pages

Uncovering the Oppressive Gender Norms Existing in Renaissance Society. In a period heavily focused on upholding morals and values deemed acceptable and admired within society, Beatrice, an anomaly of sorts, repels these social norms she is expected to maintain as a woman. The perception of a person’s character becomes easily critical and demeaning or praised and celebrated because of long-standing social norms during the Renaissance exemplified in Shakespearian literature. In Hamlet and Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare, gender inequality exists through the scathing perception of Beatrice’s effeminacy and concern over Ophelia’s purity through the paradox of Hamlet’s mindless behavior and Claudio’s concern for his reputation, highlighting …show more content…

Excellent. Well you are a fishmonger. Not me, my Lord. Then I would you were so honest a man”(Shakespeare) Detailing Polonius a fishmonger employs a metaphorical insult suggesting that his words are nothing more than idle gossip and full of falsehoods. Furthermore, as Hamlet deems Polonius a fishmonger, swiftly, he denies ever telling mistruths himself, revealing Shakespeare’s irony that adds humor to the play through Hamlet’s deceptive character. (Thesis Reminder): Laertes' counsel to Ophelia reveals the societal expectations placed upon women, showcasing the inequality and vulnerability women face in a patriarchal Renaissance society where men like Claudio possess the power to punish Hero for perceived offense against his honor. Before Laertes departs to France, he offers advice to Ophleia concerning her relationship with Hamlet urging her to acknowledge the consequences she will face. Laertes employs Ophelia to, “Then weigh what loss your honour may sustain, if with too credent ear you list his songs, or lose your heart, or your chaste treasure open to his unmaster’d importunity”(Shakespeare). Laertes warns Ophelia through Shakespeare’s metaphor “your chaste

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