Shakespeare and the Four Humours

This section explores how Shakespeare incorporated the four humours theory into his character development. Many of his characters embody specific humours, adding depth and complexity to their personalities.

Example: Falstaff from Henry IV is considered one of the most famous sanguine characters in literature, while Hamlet exemplifies the melancholic temperament.

Astrology in the Elizabethan Era

Astrology played a significant role in Elizabethan society, influencing various aspects of life from medicine to event planning.

Highlight: The Elizabethan era recognized five main types of astrology: natal, medical, horary, electional, and mundane.

Definition: Medieval astrology was a complex system that combined astronomical observations with philosophical and religious beliefs to interpret celestial influences on human affairs.

Sources and References

The presentation concludes with a list of sources used for research, including academic articles and online resources related to Shakespeare, astrology, and the four humours theory.

Highlight: The sources provide further reading for those interested in exploring medieval astrology and its influence on literature and culture.

Conclusion

The presentation ends with a thank you note to the audience, encouraging further exploration of the fascinating world of four humour theory and its lasting impact on literature and psychology.

Highlight: Understanding the four elements and the four humours in the Elizabethan era provides valuable insight into Shakespeare's character development and the cultural context of his works.