Justice delays revenge-The Spanish Tragedy and revenge tradition

Abstract

The Spanish T r a g e d v . one of the best examples of English Renaissance drama, contributed towards the establishment of the revenge tragedy genre, which gained popularity in the years to come. Kyd in this play not only indicates that when the law is unjust, man will resort to revenge; but also demonstrates that a citizen should obey the ruler and regard revenge as a revolt against the state. Tl-is play tells the story of Hieronimo, who expects the murderer^ of his son to be punished. However, Hieronimo gradually discovers that the institutions of justice are useless and therefore takes revenge. His belief in justice and religious ban on revenge prevent him from taking his revenge. To emphasize this point this thesis will focus on the tradition of revenge; point out the connection between the k i n g ’s authority and revenge; and demonstrate how Hieronimo takes revenge.