The Greatest English Playwright.

Differences Between the Left and Conservatives Part II

The Greatest English Playwright.

For the left, there is no single “greatest” English playwright. Greatness is seen as subjective and open to interpretation. In academic and literary circles influenced by leftist ideas, the criteria for recognition is often based on race, gender, and sexual orientation. As a result, literature departments in places like the University of Pennsylvania have replaced images of Shakespeare with those of LGBTQ+ writers or racial minorities. The goal is to broaden the canon and highlight diverse voices and marginalized groups.

For conservatives in the English speaking world, artistic greatness is measured by the quality and lasting impact of the work itself. They often regard William Shakespeare as the greatest playwright because of his poetic mastery, influential plays, and his profound impact on the English language and the arts. For conservatives, Shakespeare’s legacy stands as a pinnacle of human achievement, regardless of his personal background. This perspective values artistic merit, historical influence, and universal themes over the identity of the artist.