Human Nature

Definition

Human nature refers to the inherent characteristics, including thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, that define what it means to be human. This concept often explores themes of morality, motivation, and the complexities of individual and collective identity, influencing various literary movements and works across time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Restoration tragedy often examines human nature through themes of ambition, revenge, and morality, reflecting societal changes after the monarchy's restoration in England.
2. Jonathan Swift's writings reveal a skeptical view of human nature, critiquing society's failings through satire and highlighting the darker aspects of humanity.
3. Samuel Johnson emphasized human nature in his works by exploring moral philosophy, ethics, and the complexities of human relationships.
4. Robert Browning's use of dramatic monologue captures the intricacies of human psychology, allowing readers to engage deeply with individual characters' motivations and moral dilemmas.
5. The exploration of human nature across these literary figures reflects an ongoing dialogue about what it means to be human, addressing both individual impulses and broader societal issues.

Review Questions

• How do Restoration tragedies reflect differing views on human nature in response to their historical context?
  • Restoration tragedies often depict human nature as driven by ambition, desire, and revenge, mirroring the social upheaval of their time. The characters are frequently motivated by personal gain or societal expectations, leading to morally ambiguous outcomes. This reflection indicates a broader commentary on the chaotic nature of society following the restoration of the monarchy, revealing how context shapes understanding of humanity.
• In what ways does Swift's satirical portrayal of human nature challenge societal norms in his major works?
  • Swift uses satire to expose the flaws of human nature by highlighting greed, hypocrisy, and folly in society. Works like 'Gulliver's Travels' serve as a critique of Enlightenment ideals, showcasing humanity's shortcomings. By presenting characters and societies that embody these traits, Swift invites readers to question prevailing assumptions about reason and virtue, illustrating a more cynical view of humanity's potential.
• Evaluate how the portrayal of human nature by Johnson and Browning contributes to our understanding of character complexity in literature.
  • Johnson's exploration of morality and ethics alongside Browning's dramatic monologues offers profound insights into character complexity. Johnson’s writings reveal deep moral inquiries about human behavior, while Browning allows characters to express conflicting emotions and thoughts directly. Together, they illustrate how understanding human nature involves recognizing both its contradictions and its depth, enriching literary narratives with nuanced psychological portrayals.

Related terms

Innate: Describing qualities or traits that are natural or inborn rather than acquired or learned.

Morality: A system of principles and values concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that focuses on individual freedom, choice, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.