The Role of Love in Shakespeare's Works and His Permanence in Aesthetics

William Shakespeare, often heralded as the greatest playwright in the English language, frequently invoked the word 'love' in his plays. While the concept of love is arguably significant, it raises the question—does love hold a central position in his works, and does Shakespeare maintain a lasting aesthetic value in the realm of literature?

Let us delve into these aspects starting with the paramount theme of love.

Love: The Central Emotion

Love, an ambivalent and profoundly complex emotion, plays a central role in Shakespeare's works. It enriches humanity, making us more nuanced and less doctrinaire. Love is far more intriguing and multifaceted than the monotonous emotion of hate. Death, while undeniably significant, is a mere border that "no traveler returns" from, albeit one that informs our life. In contrast, hate can fuel radical actions, as seen in the Duke's recommendation in Measure for Measure.

It is important to note that during certain periods of Shakespeare's career, the use of the word "God" was not allowed in theatrical performances. Therefore, the frequency of the word 'love' in his plays becomes even more significant. Also, the term "love" in Shakespearean English often transcends romantic contexts, encompassing courtesy and social decorum. For instance, in King Lear, Oswald's statement, "I love thee not," can be interpreted as a simple request rather than an emotional conflict.

Context and Usage of 'Love'

In the introductory scene of King Lear, when Oswald is questioning Kent about where to set the horses, Kent replies, 'I the mire,' and then Oswald demands, "Prithee if thou lovest me, tell me." Kent's response, 'I love thee not,' is akin to a modern phrase, such as 'Can I go to the bathroom? I don’t know can you.' This indicates the wide ranging lexical and idiomatic usage of the word 'love' in Shakespeare's plays.

Shakespeare isn't intoxicated by romantic sentiments; he uses 'love' to explore various aspects of human relationships. In his comedies, particularly, love and marriage are central to the recreation and renewal of social settings. Would Shakespeare have excluded 'love' from his comedic plays? It is debatable, but his love for the language itself allows for a broader spectrum of emotions and contexts.

Shakespeare’s Aesthetic Legacy

The second question prompts us to ponder Shakespeare's enduring relevance in the aesthetic domain. As the human race is transient, permanence in the truest sense may be an illusion. However, as long as men and women exist with the ability to think and understand, Shakespeare will remain an indispensable part of that understanding. In his own plays, he often depicted the brevity and impermanence of life, yet his own words endure.

Shakespeare's works have stood the test of time, offering continuous insights into the human condition. Even when his plays are read in the present, they remain profoundly relevant, reflecting current social and psychological realities. This enduring quality is a testament to his genius and the profound impact he has had on the English language and literature.

In conclusion, Shakespeare's works are studied not only for their linguistic richness but also for their deep exploration of complex emotions such as love. His plays continue to provide rich material for scholars, actors, and audiences alike. Furthermore, his enduring relevance in the realms of literature and aesthetics is a testament to his timeless and profound impact.