Edward Bond: 'What Shakespeare and the Greeks were able to do was radically question what it meant to be a human being.'

What Shakespeare and the Greeks were able to do was radically question what it meant to be a human being.

In his powerful quote, Edward Bond encapsulates the revolutionary impact of Shakespeare and the Greeks on the understanding of what it truly means to be a human being. Their works not only entertained but also probed deeply into the complexities of human existence, challenging societal norms and beliefs. This article delves into the profound meaning and significance of Bond's quote, exploring the ways in which these legendary playwrights defied conventions and introduced unexpected philosophical concepts to the stage.What sets Shakespeare and the Greek playwrights apart is their ability to confront and question the very essence of human nature. Through their plays, they dissected the human condition, unraveled the complexities of emotions, and delved into existential dilemmas. Shakespeare's characters, such as Hamlet and Macbeth, encapsulate the internal struggles and moral dilemmas faced by individuals, forcing audiences to reflect on their own moral compasses. Similarly, the Greeks explored universal themes of love, power, fate, and mortality through works like Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" and Euripides' "Medea."Yet, what makes Bond's quote particularly intriguing is the notion of "radically" questioning what it means to be human. To expand on this concept, we can turn to the philosophy of existentialism. Developed by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, existentialism delves into the individual's freedom, responsibility, and the existential dread caused by the absence of inherent meaning in life. By dissecting the human experience, Shakespeare and the Greeks laid the foundation for existentialist thought. Their works challenged societal norms and beliefs, forcing audiences to question established conventions, and ultimately embarking on a journey to discover their own purpose and meaning in life.Moreover, Shakespeare and the Greek playwrights introduced concepts such as agency, fate, and the power dynamics that shape human existence. In "Macbeth," for instance, Shakespeare explores the struggle between one's personal ambition and the influence of supernatural forces, blurring the lines between personal responsibility and external influences. Similarly, the Greeks examined the role of fate in steering the course of human life, as seen in plays like "Antigone" and "Oedipus Rex." These themes not only captivated audiences but also challenged societal notions of free will and determinism, raising thought-provoking questions about the limits of human agency.Shakespeare's and the Greeks' ability to question the very essence of humanity is deeply significant. By unearthing the multifaceted dimensions of human existence, they broke free from the confines of contemporary norms and conventions, and in doing so, opened up new avenues for self-reflection and introspection. Their plays continue to transcend time, bridging the gap between historical eras and geographical boundaries, reminding us of the universal human experience and the timeless questions we grapple with.In conclusion, Edward Bond's quote about Shakespeare and the Greeks "radically questioning what it meant to be a human being" strikes at the heart of their profound impact on the understanding of humanity. Their ability to explore the complexities of human nature, challenge societal norms, and introduce unexpected philosophical concepts continues to resonate with audiences across generations. Shakespeare and the Greek playwrights not only entertained but also ignited a profound journey of self-reflection, urging us to examine our own existence and what it truly means to be human.