Falling Oberon: Exploring Shelley's Radical Poetics in Modern Plays by Silas Houghton and Anne Carson

Abstract

This article explores the transformative adaptations of Percy Bysshe Shelley's seminal work, "Prometheus Unbound," in contemporary plays by Silas Houghton and Anne Carson. It examines how these works engage with Shelley's radical poetics and themes to address pressing issues of our time.

Falling (Oberon Modern Plays)

by Shelley Silas

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	470 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	152 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	113 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	5.1 x 0.3 x 8.2 inches

FREE

Percy Bysshe Shelley's "Prometheus Unbound" (1818) is a visionary masterpiece that has profoundly influenced generations of poets, playwrights, and thinkers. Its themes of revolution, liberation, and the power of imagination have resonated deeply with audiences across time. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Shelley's work, particularly in the context of contemporary theater.

Two notable adaptations of "Prometheus Unbound" are Silas Houghton's "The Abduction" (2018) and Anne Carson's "Antigonick" (2012). This article analyzes the ways in which these plays reimagine and extend Shelley's radical poetics, addressing pressing issues such as climate change, social inequality, and the limits of language.

Radical Poetics: Revolt and Revolution

One of the defining features of Shelley's poetics is its radicalism. In "Prometheus Unbound," the titular character embodies the spirit of rebellion against oppressive authority. His defiance of Zeus represents a radical critique of tyranny and the assertion of human freedom.

In "The Abduction," Houghton reimagines Prometheus as a climate activist who protests against the destruction of the natural world by capitalism. By framing environmental degradation as a form of oppression, Houghton extends the reach of Shelley's revolutionary poetics to a contemporary concern.

Carson's "Antigonick" also draws parallels between the oppression of individuals and the broader societal injustices. Her adaptation centers on the Greek myth of Antigone, a young woman who defies the king's authority to bury her brother. Carson's text exposes the hypocrisy of power structures that claim to uphold law and order while violating fundamental human rights.

Liberation through Imagination

Another key aspect of Shelley's poetics is his belief in the liberating power of imagination. In "Prometheus Unbound," the act of imagining a world free from oppression becomes a transformative force that drives the protagonist's resistance.

Houghton and Carson similarly harness the power of imagination in their adaptations. In "The Abduction," the character of Prometheus envisions a sustainable future where humans live in harmony with nature. This vision becomes a source of inspiration for the other characters, empowering them to confront their oppressors.

In "Antigonick," Carson explores the limits and possibilities of language as a tool for liberation. Antigone's unwavering belief in the power of words to challenge authority becomes both her strength and her downfall. Carson's text interrogates the complex relationship between language, power, and the individual's capacity to resist oppression.

Contemporary Relevance: Climate Change and Social Justice

The adaptations by Houghton and Carson highlight the enduring relevance of Shelley's work in contemporary society. Their plays address pressing issues such as climate change and social inequality, demonstrating how Shelley's radical poetics can resonate with audiences today.

"The Abduction" exposes the devastating consequences of climate change and challenges the complacency of those who profit from environmental destruction. Houghton's adaptation calls for urgent action to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

"Antigonick" delves into the complexities of systemic oppression and the need for individual resistance. Carson's text explores the limitations of law and order in upholding justice and emphasizes the importance of dissent and compassion.

The adaptations of "Prometheus Unbound" by Silas Houghton and Anne Carson offer innovative and thought-provoking interpretations of Shelley's radical poetics. Through themes of revolt, liberation, and the power of imagination, these plays engage with pressing contemporary issues, highlighting the enduring relevance of Shelley's work.

By reimagining Prometheus as a climate activist and Antigone as a symbol of resistance against systemic oppression, Houghton and Carson demonstrate the transformative potential of theater to address the challenges of our time. Their adaptations serve as a testament to the enduring power of Shelley's radical poetics to inspire and empower audiences across generations.

Falling (Oberon Modern Plays)

by Shelley Silas

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	470 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	152 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	113 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	5.1 x 0.3 x 8.2 inches

FREE