cts the prevailing attitude of the timeand Shakespeares conformity to it.By contrast, Shakespeare advocates more feminist ideals in The Winters Tale, written fourteen to seventeen years after King John. The women in this play are certainly on a more equal footing with their men than are the women in King John. Clearly, King Leontes personal happiness and familys foundation rest on his queen, Hermione. When he doubts her fidelity, Leontes peace of mind is shattered. He declares, Nor night nor day, no rest! (2.3.1). Also, his family dissolves as a direct result of her fidelity being questioned. His son Mamillius dies of grief, while his daughter Perdita is lost for sixteen years. Hermione herself is presumed dead for these sixteen years. The audience is lead to believe that Leontes has unwittingly killed Hermione as kind of punishment for her supposed adultery. However, we later discover that Hermione has been in seclusion for sixteen years, letting Leontes think her to be dead. Therefore, it is she who punishes him for his tyranny.Perdita also has power in her relationship with the man she loves. Prince Florizel announces,were I crowned the most imperial monarch,Thereof most worthy, were I the fairest youthThat ever made eye swerve, had force andKnowledgeMore than was ever mans, I would not prize themWithout her love; for her employ them all,Commend them and condemn them to her serviceOr to their own perdition (4.4.372-78).Florizel makes it clear that nothing he could ever hope to have is worth anything without Perditas love. In King John, not one character so openly admits to anothers power over them through love. Antigonus and Paulinas relationship is likewise characterized by equality. When Paulina launches into her tirade, berating King Leontes for his unfounded jealousy, the King immediately blames Antigonus. He demands of him, What, canst not rule her? (2.3.46), to which Paulina instantly responds, trust it,/ he s...
