The Character of Helena free essay sample

An analysis of the character of Helena in Shakespeare play Alls Well That Ends Well. This paper presents a character analysis of Helena in the Shakespearean play Alls Well That Ends Well. Often criticized for her manipulative deeds and lack of feminine attributes, Helenas personality is explored by focusing on her feminine and masculine traits and by analyzing her motives. Shakespeares use of literary devices such as foreshadowing is also explored. In Shakespeares plays, we often find the female characters to be more powerful and unique in their attributes than the ones that existed in actual 17th century English society. This is exactly the impression we get from the character of Helena in Alls well that ends well, as the woman refuses to be bound by moral and societal restrictions and passionately seeks fulfillment of her desires. Not only that, we also notice that Helena, though lower in social standing than her husband Bertram, doesnt take into account the status barriers and being fully aware of her rights as a wife tries to win her husband over despite his persistent rejection. We will write a custom essay sample on The Character of Helena or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The theme of ethics and morality dominantly overshadows the entire play with readers being forced to analyze and judge every persons motives and every situation in the light of twisted sense of morality that Helena possessed. Helenas character has been a constant source of conflict among critics as Levin (1930) writes, `Some regard her as a genuine romantic heroineresourceful, yes, but also virtuous, feminine, charming, and modest. She never behaves cynically, and her motives are above reproach . The alternative view is that Helena mercilessly pursues Bertram. Whether she is at first motivated by love, sex or ambition she sets out to trap Bertram, succeeds, andwhen he flees hercaptures him again. She gets the husband she deserves, a spoiled aristocrat.` (Levin, pg. 131)