Why is there so much Shakespeare incorporated into "Brave New World"? What does Shakespeare represent in "Brave New World"?
<<Shakespeare provides the language through which John understands the world. Through John’s use of Shakespeare, the novel makes contact with the rich themes explored in plays like The Tempest. It also creates a stark contrast between the utilitarian simplicity and inane babble of the World State’s propaganda and the nuanced, elegant verse of a time “before Ford.” Shakespeare’s plays provide many examples of precisely the kind of human relations—passionate, intense, and often tragic—that the World State is committed to eliminating.>>
from: http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/bravenew/themes.html
And see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_quotes_from_Shakespeare_in_Brave_New_World
The title Brave New World was taken from a quote in Shakespeare's The Tempest. Check these sites.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tempest_%28play%29
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brave_New_World
You can compare the themes and motifs at these two sites.
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/bravenew/themes.html
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/tempest/themes.html
In "Brave New World," the inclusion of Shakespeare serves multiple purposes, offering various layers of meaning. Shakespeare is represented as a symbol of traditional literature, artistic expression, and humanity's past. Here’s how you can understand why it is incorporated into the novel:
1. Historical and Artistic Significance: To understand the significance of Shakespeare in "Brave New World," it is important to recognize his historical and artistic importance. Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in the English language and has had a profound impact on literature and theater. His works are considered timeless classics and are taught in schools worldwide.
2. Literary Allusion: By incorporating Shakespeare into the novel, Aldous Huxley is making a literary allusion. Through references and quotes from Shakespeare's plays, Huxley is highlighting the enduring nature of Shakespeare's work and its continued relevance in the future world of "Brave New World." This indicates that even in a dystopian society, the power of literature endures and can serve as a source of inspiration and reflection.
3. Reflection of Humanity: Shakespeare's works often delve into the complexities of human nature, including themes of love, power, ambition, and morality. By including Shakespeare in "Brave New World," Huxley suggests that despite the technological advancements and dehumanizing aspects of the society, the fundamental human emotions and experiences cannot be eradicated completely. Shakespeare represents the depth and complexity of human emotions and serves as a reminder of what is lost in the novel's futuristic world.
4. Cultural Critique: Another reason for the inclusion of Shakespeare is to critique the shallow and superficial nature of the society depicted in "Brave New World." In the novel, Shakespeare's works are simplified and adapted to serve as mindless entertainment. This points to a cultural degradation in which art and literature are reduced to mere distractions, losing their profound meaning and transformative power.
To sum up, the incorporation of Shakespeare in "Brave New World" represents the enduring power of literature, explores humanity's complex nature, and serves as a critique of a society that has lost its appreciation for meaningful art.