Prejudice

Definition

Prejudice refers to a preconceived opinion or judgment about individuals or groups that is not based on reason or actual experience. It often involves negative attitudes or discriminatory beliefs towards certain social categories, including race, religion, gender, or ethnicity. This concept is significant in understanding how characters and narratives interact within literary works, particularly when exploring moral and ethical dilemmas, as seen through various biblical and religious motifs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prejudice can manifest in various forms, including racial, religious, and gender bias, influencing character motivations and conflicts in literature.
2. Shakespeare often depicted characters grappling with their prejudices, reflecting societal norms and moral questions of his time.
3. Biblical references in Shakespeare's works often serve to highlight the consequences of prejudice and the need for compassion and understanding.
4. The themes of judgment and redemption in Shakespeare's plays frequently parallel biblical teachings about overcoming prejudice and embracing love for others.
5. Shakespeare's use of religious motifs can underscore the dangers of prejudicial thinking, urging audiences to reflect on their own biases and societal attitudes.

Review Questions

• How does Shakespeare's portrayal of prejudice in his characters reflect societal attitudes of his time?
  • Shakespeare's portrayal of prejudice often mirrors the societal norms and attitudes prevalent during the Elizabethan era. Characters frequently display biases based on race, class, or religion, which not only drive the plot but also provoke the audience to question these prejudices. For instance, in 'Othello,' the racism faced by Othello highlights how deeply ingrained societal prejudices can impact personal relationships and lead to tragic outcomes.
• In what ways do biblical motifs in Shakespeare's works challenge or reinforce themes of prejudice?
  • Biblical motifs in Shakespeare's works serve as powerful tools to challenge and critique themes of prejudice. For example, references to mercy and forgiveness found in biblical texts often contrast sharply with the harsh judgments characters impose on each other. This duality allows Shakespeare to explore the complexities of human nature, illustrating how characters can either succumb to their prejudices or strive for redemption through empathy and understanding.
• Evaluate the impact of prejudice on character development and moral lessons in Shakespeare's plays, particularly in relation to religious teachings.
  • Prejudice plays a critical role in character development within Shakespeare's plays by shaping their actions and relationships. Characters who embody prejudicial views often face significant moral challenges that align with religious teachings about love, acceptance, and forgiveness. By evaluating these dynamics, it becomes clear that Shakespeare uses prejudice not only as a narrative device but also as a lens through which audiences can examine their own beliefs. The journey from prejudice to understanding serves as a profound moral lesson that resonates with the audience’s own experiences.

Related terms

Discrimination:

Discrimination is the unjust treatment of different categories of people, often stemming from prejudicial beliefs.

Stereotype: A stereotype is a widely held but oversimplified belief about a particular group of people, which can lead to prejudice.

Bias: Bias is a tendency to favor one group over another, often resulting in unfair treatment or attitudes that contribute to prejudice.