Sometimes a Great Notion Summary by Chapter

Chapter One: The Contra Side

In this chapter, the author discusses the opposing views on William Shakespeare's work. While some have passionately admired his plays and poetry, others have been critical of his writing style and themes. Russian author Leo Tolstoy, for instance, had strong words against Shakespeare, criticizing his works as being overly complex and lacking in emotional depth.

Chapter Two: The Passionate Admirers

Despite the criticisms, Shakespeare has had numerous passionate admirers throughout history. Many notable writers have extolled his genius, including Samuel Johnson, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and William Hazlitt. Harold Bloom even went so far as to say that Shakespeare 'taught us to understand human nature' and is a master of creating complex personalities.

Chapter Three: The Power of Shakespeare's Work

The power of Shakespeare's work lies in its ability to transcend time and culture. His plays and poetry continue to be widely studied and performed today, over 400 years after his death. This enduring popularity can be attributed to the depth and complexity of his characters, as well as the universal themes he explored.

Chapter Four: The Iconic Reputation

Shakespeare's reputation is not only that of a great writer but also an iconic figure in literature. His works have become an integral part of our cultural heritage, influencing countless other writers and artists over the centuries. His plays continue to be performed and adapted in various forms, cementing his status as one of the greatest writers in human history.

Chapter Five: Personal Reflections

In this chapter, the author reflects on their own relationship with Shakespeare's work. Despite being a writer themselves, they have never written about Shakespeare or even quoted him in their own writing. This lack of enthusiasm is not unique, as many people struggle to articulate their feelings about Shakespeare's work.

Shakespeare's legacy continues to be debated and celebrated by scholars and writers alike. His works may seem daunting at times, but their power lies in their ability to evoke strong emotions and inspire new generations of artists. Whether one admires him or not, Shakespeare remains a towering figure in literature, whose influence will continue to be felt for centuries to come.

Sometimes a great notion summary by chapter