Humanistic Characterization Yet Unattainable Miscegenation: A Contrapuntal Reading of Shakespeare’s Humanism

Abstract

Objectives: This study proposes a contrapuntal reading for the Oriental/Westerner interracial marriages in William Shakespeare’s Othello, Antony and Cleopatra, and The Merchant of Venice. It aims to show that Edward Said’s postmodern humanism provides intriguing insights which challenge the mainstream interpretations implied by Renaissance humanism. Methods: The study deconstructs the point-counterpoint structure in the aforesaid plays to acknowledge the feasibility of different interpretations for the Oriental discourse using Said’s postmodern humanism. It compares and contrasts Shakespeare’s Renaissance humanism with Said’s understanding of postmodern humanism to show that the latter underscores the necessity of inclusion and the triumphant integration of the Oriental in Western societies. The study opens the Shakespearean texts to new interpretations by examining their humanistic inclinations vis- à vis postmodern humanism which puts its philosophical stances into effective practice in order to influence the global imagination, empower the “Other” and entail ideological change. Results: Shakespeare’s humanism mitigates his Orientalism but does not reverse the stereotypical representation of the “Other” as an individual with exotic cultural background who fails to have a normal relationship with a Western spouse. Shakespeare’s latent advocacy of the stereotypical representation of the “Other” becomes manifest in the outcome of the marriage relationship with the Oriental. The cultural barrier hampers the successful union between the Oriental and the Westerner; accordingly, Shakespeare portrays this relationship as either tragic or comic. Conclusion: The final conclusion that can be drawn from this study is that Shakespeare’s mainstream Renaissance humanism informs his characterization, yet it does not reverse Oriental stereotypes nor does it condone miscegenation, if approached in the light of the tents of postmodern humanism