How hard it is for women to keep counsel!

How hard it is for women to keep counsel!

In the works of William Shakespeare, the theme of women struggling to keep counsel is a recurring motif that reflects the societal norms and expectations of the time. In many of Shakespeare's plays, female characters are often portrayed as being unable to keep secrets or maintain confidentiality, leading to disastrous consequences for themselves and those around them.

One of the most famous examples of this theme can be seen in the character of Ophelia in Shakespeare's tragedy, Hamlet. Ophelia is torn between her loyalty to her father, Polonius, and her love for Prince Hamlet. When Polonius instructs her to spy on Hamlet and report back to him, Ophelia struggles to keep this secret from Hamlet, ultimately leading to her downfall. Her inability to keep counsel ultimately results in her madness and tragic death.

Similarly, in Shakespeare's comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, the character of Hero is falsely accused of infidelity by her fiancé, Claudio, based on the words of the villainous Don John. Despite Hero's innocence, her inability to defend herself and keep counsel leads to her public humiliation and near-death. It is only through the intervention of her friends and family that her innocence is eventually proven.

The theme of women struggling to keep counsel is not limited to Shakespeare's tragedies and comedies. In his historical plays, such as Richard III and Henry VIII, female characters such as Queen Elizabeth and Lady Anne are also depicted as being unable to keep secrets or maintain confidentiality. Their lack of discretion often leads to political intrigue and betrayal, further highlighting the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society.

Overall, Shakespeare's portrayal of women struggling to keep counsel serves as a commentary on the limitations placed on women in Elizabethan England. Despite their intelligence and strength, female characters are often portrayed as being unable to navigate the complexities of courtly life and political intrigue, leading to their downfall. This theme continues to resonate with audiences today, highlighting the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's work.