War , whether a conflict from within or a conflict
between nations war is the ultimate curse of mankind it creates fear and arouses the basest of
instincts.The instinct to survive. War, the fear of war and death can be to some people their most
noble hour, and in others we see the sins of evil, greed, power and lust. The three text types,
Troilus and Cressida, They and Anthem for Doomed Youth, express differing views of how
human nature reacts to the influence of war in their lives.
Shakespeares play Troilus and Cressida offers a debased view of human nature in war
time. The theme of conflict between personal life and the interests of the state can be reduced to
themes of lust and power. There are however, other minor themes running parallel to the major
themes, namely, jealously, cowardice, thuggery and pride
The characters in Troilus and Cressida are all personally affected by war. The nature of
war motivates their behaviour and unfortunately, in this play, not in a positive way. Troilus and
Cressida are both Trojans and become lovers. Troy is at war with Greece and Cressida's father
To show how war affects personal relationships in the play, three relationships will be
analysed.They are: Troilus and Cressida, Hector- his wife and sister and Cressida's involvement
Firstly Troilus and Cressida's professions of their love are confined and slaves to the
political situation in which they find themselves.
"this is the monastery in love, lady, that the will is infinite and the execution confined; that the
desire is boundless and the act a slave to limit" ( act 3 sc2 75-77) Troilus and Cressida never
mention matrimony.Most lovers in war, do not, as they do not contemplate tomorrow but live for
the moment.For Troilus and Cressida, lust is the driving emotion of the moment. As in all
tragedies, these lovers are separated. Cressida has been exchanged for a Trojan prisoner ...