The old vs the new: shakespeare’s maturing vision

The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of William Shakespeare's personal values and beliefs, highlighting the challenges in determining them due to the lack of material evidence. Through his literary works, Shakespeare delves into a myriad of topics, including philosophy, culture, science, human anatomy, atoms, matter, and planetary motion, indicating his exposure to and familiarity with contemporary scientific concepts. Methodologically, this paper employs literary analysis, and finding excerpts from the literary texts of Shakespeare’s plays which suggest his developing knowledge of science, medicine, astronomy, etc. The main focus of this paper is the evolution of Shakespeare's vision, contrasting the old and the new worldviews. Early in his career, Shakespeare adhered to the medieval practice of linking physical traits to character. However, a noticeable shift towards modern attitudes is evident in his later works. The results demonstrate that Shakespeare's works, including "Hamlet," "Twelfth Night," "Romeo and Juliet," "King Lear," and "Macbeth," demonstrate his knowledge of matter, weight, and human anatomy. His depiction of anatomical details suggests a gradual departure from the humoral theory, opening the door to new perspectives on the human body. This shift implies a move towards the idea that a person's mood, disposition, and actions are governed by free will and reason. Shakespeare's inquisitiveness and appreciation for scientific advancements are evident throughout his works. By questioning the old system and embracing new principles, Shakespeare's evolving thought encourages audiences to challenge hierarchical structures and consider the equality of all individuals.