The Basilikon Doron is an important term to know when studying the play “Macbeth”. The entire play dances around the theme of power, the absolute, and authority. Macbeth’s character is an embodiment of this corrupt form of control. Considering this play was written during the Jacobean Era, a time of much misled authority, King James I’s written work is definitely an influential part of the play.
The Basilikon Doron was written by King James I in 1603. The King wrote this document for his eldest son, but after his son died he passed the book down to his second son, Charles I. This document was like a bible for the next reigning king. It consisted of how a king should deal with Christianity, how a king should rule, and lastly how a king should deal with everyday life. King James I was a firm believer in power and authority. As discussed in class, James saw himself as the “father” of England. He promoted masculinity, control, and order into his ruling style which managed to weaken his overall kingly status. James I was disliked by almost all of his ruling subjects. It was King James I’s Basilikon Doron and his awful reign that led Shakespeare’s later plays to evolve into Romances and Tragedies (not so happy endings).
Bridgette Wiener, Section 1A (Waldo)
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"Basilikon Doran" also plays an important role in Shakespeare's Measure for Measure. In lecture, (if I remember correctly)Professor Little pointed out that, "Basilikon Doran" is underscored in this play because with the absence of the Duke, the city is in the state of chaos and immorality. However, at the end of the play, Shakespeare re-emphasizes the idea of authority and absolutism, by making the Duke take complete charge of the mass (ex. making Angelo marrying his rightful wife, Marianna). The presence of the Duke re-establishes order, reclaiming the authority given to Angelo and strengthening his absolute power.
Xian Yan Liu
Section 1A Amanda Waldo
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