Liberal humanism is a philosophical tradition that emphasizes the importance of
individual autonomy, critical thinking, and reason. It is based on the belief that all
human beings are born with certain fundamental rights and freedoms, and that these
rights should be protected by law. Liberal humanists also believe in the importance of
education and social justice.
Post-structuralism is an intellectual movement that emerged in the late 20th century. It
challenges many of the traditional assumptions of Western philosophy, such as the
existence of objective truth and the possibility of universal knowledge.
Post-structuralists argue that all reality is socially constructed, and that language plays
a key role in shaping our understanding of the world.
Dead White Males explores the conflict between these two ideologies through the
character of Angela Judd. Angela is a bright and ambitious university student who is
initially drawn to post-structuralism. She is attracted to its critique of traditional authority
and its emphasis on the importance of language. However, as she learns more about
post-structuralism, she begins to question its assumptions. She comes to realize that
post-structuralism can be used to justify all sorts of harmful beliefs and behaviors.
In contrast, Angela finds that liberal humanism offers a more hopeful and empowering
vision of the world. Liberal humanism believes in the importance of individual autonomy
and critical thinking. It also believes that all human beings are capable of living moral
and ethical lives.
The play's use of Shakespeare's plays is significant. Shakespeare is often seen as a
representative of liberal humanism. His plays explore themes of human nature, love,
loss, and redemption. In contrast, post-structuralism often rejects Shakespeare as
being too traditional and patriarchal.
The play's conclusion is a victory for liberal humanism. Angela rejects
post-structuralism and embraces a more traditional view of the world. She falls in love
with Steve, a mechanic who represents everything that post-structuralism rejects.
Together, they walk off stage hand in hand, symbolizing the triumph of love and human
nature over ideology.
In more detail, here are some of the specific techniques that Williamson uses to
represent the two ideologies in the play:
● The use of Shakespeare's plays: Shakespeare's plays are used to illustrate the
different perspectives of liberal humanism and post-structuralism. For example,
Angela's essay on As You Like It argues that the play is ideologically biased,
while Melissa's essay on The Taming of the Shrew argues that the play is simply
a reflection of human nature.
● The character of Dr. Grant Swain: Swain is a charismatic and intelligent
professor who represents post-structuralism. He is able to persuade Angela to
accept his views, but he is ultimately revealed to be a hypocrite.
● The character of Col. Judd: Col. Judd is a traditionalist who represents liberal
humanism. He is sexist and racist, but he is also kind and generous. His
character helps Angela to see the value of traditional values.
● The final scene of the play: The final scene of the play shows Angela rejecting
post-structuralism and embracing a more traditional view of the world. She falls
in love with Steve, a mechanic who represents everything that post-structuralism
rejects. Together, they walk off stage hand in hand, symbolizing the triumph of
love and human nature over ideology.
Overall, Dead White Males is a complex and thought-provoking play that explores the
conflict between liberal humanism and post-structuralism. Williamson uses a variety of
techniques to represent the two ideologies, and he ultimately positions the audience to
prefer liberal humanism.
