Representation of Masculinity the Renaissance Family and Shakespeare's Macbeth

Representation of Masculinity the Renaissance Family and Shakespeare's Macbeth

Familiarity with Shakespeare's work often leads to awareness to the

representation of masculinity, gender roles, and the patriarchal order

as these subjects are often greatly reflected in his writing.

Renaissance concept of order meant there was a shift from what used to

be an Open Lineage Family, to a Restricted Patriarchal Nuclear Family.

In turn, Renaissance families saw an increase in obligations to the

church and state. Shakespeare (with the use of irony) often played

with typical renaissance beliefs and ideologies, giving his work both

historical and critical value. With the endorsement of an ideal

marriage based on companionship and sharing, the role of women became

increasingly significant; however, their overall treatment and

position in society did not reflect this. In support of the above

statement, Marilyn French argues, 'As men began to build what would

become patriarchy, or "male supremacy built by force," the female

class became disempowered, marginalised, and subjugated to the will of

the male class.1 shakespeare noted and often commented on the

difficulties experienced by Elizabethan women but like many of his

radical contemporaries, shakepeares own social and political ideas are

shrouded in ambiguity, so although he does have definite beliefs…

According to William Perkins, the wife's first duty is submission to

her husband and acknowledgement of him as 'her head in all things' and

secondly to be unquestioningly obedient 'as the church yields

obedience to Christ... to be commanded, governed and directed' Perkins

W (172-173) Women were to ...

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...Have pluck' d my nipple from his boneless gums,

And dash' d the brains out, had I so sworn

As you have done this. (1.7.47- 59)

These words depict an extreme will of steel fit for warrior, a woman

who would rather kill her own child than break her wora, so impressed

and reassured by this masculinity was Macbeth that his response was,

Bring forth men-children only!

For thy undaunted mettle should compose

Nothing but males. (1.7.73-75)

/'( (

Macbeth uses the same tactics used by his wife on him when he insights

A the murder of Banquo. He tells the two men that Banquo is the reason

for

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1. 'As men began to build what would become patriarchy, or "male

supremacy built by force," the female class became disempowered,

marginalised, and subjugated to the will of the male class.'