The Good and Evil in Literature and Poetry :: Othello

The Good and Evil in Literature and PoetrySir Philip Sidney, in his quote about poetry (literature) as it pertains to real life vice and integrity, is indeed correct that it brush off check a lasting effect on the way one acts, however, he is making a gross generalization when he states that a line drawing of pure virtue can divinely inspire, where as a portrayal of evil can herd the masses away from evil deeds. The on-key social value of poetry and literature is not in the portrayal of vice against virtue, but rather when the two meet inside a protagonist. It is the illumination of the paradox of right and wrong that gives us truly moving literature. We can truly understand things about ourselves when we read about characters macrocosm pulled in two directions as Queen Elizabeth in her struggles between wild-eyed and patriotic fare, or Othello as he is torn between green-eyed monster and love, or as Abraham struggles with the shoot of his son as a testament of faith. Qu een Elizabeth is an obvious example of how such a paradox can be helpful and inspirational. She writes, in On Monsieurs Departure, about how she has a duty to the state, but at the same time, wishes to love romantically in spite of it. The reader can truly relate to the character, because she is not without fault, nor is she without virtueliterature which sheds equal value to the good and the bad in human being is the most illuminating and useful. The irony in this situation is the fact that the youthful reader cannot even be sure which of the desires expressed by the fay is virtue and which is vice. Love of country is good, but fulfilling ones bear needs is good too. Ultimately, we learn from Elizabeths poem that one must make choicesthat what is virtuous can also be harmful, and likewise.Othello gives us a similar glimpse into the train-wreck that is the human mind when determining right from wrong. As the plot unfolds, the reader finds it hard to fault Othellos actions, as h e is only trying to do what is right and honorable. Even after he is duped into believing his wife is an adulterer, he still has a deep love for her (which is why Iagos lies eat at him as they do). Eventually, Othello commits a murder which he views as the only right thing to do.