Comparing Virtue and Vice in Utopia, The Bible, and Othello Essay

Comparing Virtue and Vice in Utopia, The Bible, and OthelloThe definition of moral excellence varies between cultures and societies. Utopian ideas of fair play do not necessarily agree with Biblical or Elizabethan England views, however, Mores Utopia, the Biblical accounts in Genesis of Joseph and Jacob, and Shakespeares Othello all present the concept of virtue prevailing over unrighteousness. Although at times vice may appear to triumph over virtue, ultimately poetry presents virtue as superior base on the differing definitions of virtue. The punishment of vice and advocacy of virtue is a popular theme of literature and the reason why Sir Philip Sidney correctly asserts that poetry encourages virtue and condemns vice as repulsive.Mores Utopia advocates the pursuit of virtue, however, virtue is defined as a type of hedonism. Utopians follow a unique definition of virtue, which advocates a behavior of pleasure and the pursuit of happiness. Virtue is considered living the way peo ple are designed to live, or according to nature. Utopians believe this translates as living a spirit based on achieving pleasure. The Utopian definition of pleasure may include helping other people, humanitarian views which are still advocated in the 21st century, still definitely does not include working hard for painful virtue which they consider not true virtue at all if you must impoverish yourself and suffer misery. A virtuous life is encouraged by the punishment of crime, or vice. Utopians reward virtue, and punish those who attempt crime. Strict slavery is the punishment for violating wed vows, and the other punishments are determined based on the extent of the crime. Mores fictional world of Utopia contrasts virtue and vice in society and upholds virtue as... ...e and despised character who endeavors to escape the misery of his life through suicide. The virtuous character of Cassio, shows the ultimate success and triumph of virtue over vice as he attains worldly succes s and defeats Iago, who is full of vice. These complex literary characters present morality as desirable and vices as deplorable.The narratives of Genesis, Utopia, and Othello all exemplify the achievements and victories of virtuous characters or traits. The failures and miseries inherently connected with vices are also presented. These literary works corroborate Sir Philips claim that poetry presents virtue in a light so that one must needs be enamored of her. It can be assumed, therefore, that the study of literary works such as these can only reform morals and virtues, and for the good of American society, all students should major in Literature.