To understand why the correct answer is (b) and (d), let's analyze each statement in the context of Samuel Johnson's criticism of Shakespeare:
Statement (a): "His Athenians are not sufficiently Greek and his kings not completely royal."
Johnson did critique Shakespeare's historical and geographical accuracy, but his criticism of Shakespeare often focused more on dramatic and moral aspects rather than specific historical inaccuracies like this.
Statement (b): "He sacrifices virtue to convenience and is more careful to please than to instruct."
This criticism aligns with Johnson's view that Shakespeare sometimes prioritized entertainment value over moral instruction. Johnson argued that Shakespeare's works often compromise on moral and ethical standards for the sake of dramatic convenience.
Statement (c): "He adheres to strict chronology and gives to one age or nation only its own customs and opinions."
This statement is not typically aligned with Johnson's critique. Johnson actually noted Shakespeare's tendency to mix historical periods and cultures rather than adhering strictly to chronology or national customs.
Statement (d): "He sacrifices reason, property and truth to pursue even a poor and barren quibble."
Johnson did criticize Shakespeare for sometimes valuing wordplay and dramatic effect over logical coherence and moral substance. This reflects his view that Shakespeare occasionally prioritized cleverness over deeper reasoning and truth.
Thus, statements (b) and (d) accurately reflect Johnson's criticisms of Shakespeare regarding the balance between moral instruction and dramatic convenience, as well as the sometimes superficial nature of Shakespeare’s use of reason and truth.
Year-wise PYQs
