Publisher's Synopsis
Investigating the litarary and cultural history and significance of the holy fool, Sandra Pyle analysizes seven of Shakespeare's plays in order to discover how he adapted what was a generic (medieval) character type. Pyle then theorizes that the holy fool's mission in Shakespeare's plays is to promote harmony and good will by correcting those personality flaws that impede human community.;The text then suggests that the identification and development of the holy fool as a viable literary device has led to the discovery of a new motif in Shakespeare's dramas. That is, the salvific element of play inherent in the role of holy fool as spiritual physician. This character demonstrates how art, particularly drama, proves an indespensable tool for illustrating how personal moral choices impact on a society.
