Shakespeare's Candidates: A Comparative Analysis of 2016 U.S. Presidential Election
The 2016 U.S. presidential election brought to the forefront two very distinct and polarizing figures: Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. These figures share striking parallels with characters from Shakespeare's plays, particularly All's Well That Ends Well and the Henry VI plays. This article explores these analogies and draws from the rich tapestry of Shakespeare's works to provide a unique perspective on the 2016 election.
Shakespearean Analogy in All's Well That Ends Well
All's Well That Ends Well presents a vivid reflection of the 2016 election. Hillary Clinton, with her strong policy-driven stance and deep political experience, can be likened to Helena. Helena is the heroine who defies societal norms, overcomes obstacles, and ultimately wins the hero's heart. Similarly, Hillary Clinton managed to defy expectations, surmounting gender and political challenges to become a serious contender for the presidency.
Donald Trump, on the other hand, resembles Parolles, the_false flatterer". The term "cloten" from "Cymbeline" also applies here, as both Parolles and Cloten exemplify the type of character who is cunning, manipulative, and transparently self-serving. Trump’s disregard for political correctness and truth echoed the traits of these characters, making him a clear antagonist in the election narrative.
The Henry VI Plays: A Closer Comparison
While direct analogues to 2016 are not present in Shakespeare's works, the Henry VI plays offer a rich parallel to the political upheaval, power struggles, and societal divisions that characterized the election. The reign of King Henry V, a popular and esteemed ruler, is contrasted with the instability and strife during the reign of Henry VI, his young son.
In 2 Henry VI, Duke Humphrey of Gloucester represents President Obama. Duke Humphrey, despite being loved by the people and dedicated to the well-being of the realm, faces opposition and betrayal. He is similar to President Obama, who has a significant portion of the American population supporting and advocating for him.
The death of Gloucester and Cardinal Winchester sets the stage for a power vacuum reminiscent of the late Obama administration and the Trump presidency. Andrew York, the leader of the opposition, parallels Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidates who viewed Trump's presidency with suspicion and opposition.
Shakespeare’s Prophetic Resonance with Macbeth
The closing lines of Macbeth serve as a profound commentary on the 2016 election:
"Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrown Creeps in this petty pace from day to day To the last syllable of recorded timen And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death. Out out brief candle! Lifes but a walking shadow a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage And then is heard no more. It is a tale Told by an idiot full of sound and fury Signifying nothing."
These lines describe the transient nature of political power and the futility of the political process. Trump’s campaign and victory can be seen as embodying the ethos of Macbeth, where power is secured through deceit and manipulation, and the consequences are dire. The Macbeth character, Macbeth, is a figure of ambition and power, much like Trump, who sought to disrupt the existing political order.
Conclusion: A Reflection on 2016
The 2016 U.S. presidential election can be viewed through the lens of Shakespeare's works, offering a deeper understanding of the characters and events that shaped this pivotal moment in American history. By comparing Clinton and Trump to characters from All's Well That Ends Well and Henry VI, and Trump to the Macbeth character, we gain insight into the motivations, actions, and outcomes of the election.
Shakespeare's works not only provide entertainment but also serve as a mirror to human nature and political dynamics. As we continue to reflect on the 2016 election, Shakespeare's analogies remind us of the complex and often tragic human stories that underlie political events.