Legitimacy

Definition

Legitimacy refers to the rightful authority and acceptance of power within a political system or social structure. In the context of historical narratives and drama, it often deals with the justification of rulers' claims to the throne and the moral and ethical considerations surrounding their reigns. In this light, legitimacy is vital in understanding how characters are portrayed in historical plays and the ways in which dramatic license can manipulate historical truths for artistic purposes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'Richard III', legitimacy is a central theme as Richard's claim to the throne is questioned due to his manipulative actions and moral corruption.
2. The concept of legitimacy often hinges on bloodlines and hereditary rights, which are heavily examined in the context of Shakespeare's portrayal of historical figures.
3. Dramatic license allows playwrights like Shakespeare to alter historical facts for storytelling, sometimes enhancing or undermining a character's legitimacy.
4. The portrayal of legitimate vs. illegitimate rulers creates tension and conflict in historical plays, reflecting contemporary societal values about governance.
5. Elizabethan audiences were deeply invested in questions of legitimacy, as England faced its own political uncertainties during the time Shakespeare was writing.

Review Questions

• How does the theme of legitimacy shape the character dynamics in 'Richard III'?
  • 'Richard III' uses legitimacy to create a complex interplay between characters. Richard's ruthless ambition contrasts sharply with those who have rightful claims to the throne, such as Edward IV's heirs. The question of who deserves to rule is central to the conflict, as Richard’s actions lead to a series of betrayals and murders that challenge traditional notions of rightful kingship. This tension highlights how illegitimacy breeds chaos and moral decay.
• Discuss how historical accuracy versus dramatic license affects perceptions of legitimacy in Elizabethan history plays.
  • Shakespeare often employed dramatic license to reshape historical events for narrative purposes, influencing how audiences perceive legitimacy. For instance, by exaggerating certain traits or events, he could present rulers as either noble or tyrannical, impacting the audience's understanding of their legitimacy. This blending of fact and fiction allowed playwrights to engage with contemporary issues while exploring timeless themes related to power and authority.
• Evaluate the implications of legitimacy as portrayed in 'Richard III' on contemporary views about leadership and authority.
  • The exploration of legitimacy in 'Richard III' has lasting implications on contemporary views about leadership. The play reveals how leaders can manipulate narratives to establish their authority, paralleling modern political tactics where perception often outweighs truth. Furthermore, Shakespeare's depiction raises questions about ethical leadership, accountability, and how societies determine rightful rulers—a discussion that remains relevant in today’s political discourse where issues of trust and legitimacy frequently emerge.

Related terms

Monarchy: A form of government where a single person, the monarch, rules over a territory and is often seen as divinely ordained.

Usurpation: The act of taking power unlawfully or by force, often leading to questions about the legitimacy of the usurper's rule.

Divine Right: The doctrine that kings derive their authority from God, making their rule legitimate and unquestionable according to religious belief.