"Being original is not about generating something out of nothing...the concept of originality holds no weight." Michael Chabon Drawing on the ideas in the above statement, evaluate how context influences perspective and shapes meaning? In your response, make close reference to the pair of prescribed texts that you have studied in Module A. (the two texts are hagseed and tempest, write essay and make sure there are quotes)

The concept of originality and its influence on perspective and meaning is a central theme in both William Shakespeare's "The Tempest" and Margaret Atwood's "Hag-Seed". Both texts, though separated by centuries, explore the idea that originality is not about creating something from nothing, but rather about reinterpreting and reshaping existing ideas. This essay will evaluate how the context of each text influences perspective and shapes meaning, drawing on Michael Chabon's assertion that "the concept of originality holds no weight."

In "The Tempest", Shakespeare presents a world where magic and reality intertwine, creating a unique context that shapes the characters' perspectives and the overall meaning of the play. Prospero's manipulation of reality through magic is a clear example of this. He states, "We are such stuff as dreams are made on," suggesting that reality is malleable and can be shaped by one's imagination. This reflects the Elizabethan belief in the supernatural and the power of the human mind, thus demonstrating how context influences perspective.

In contrast, Atwood's "Hag-Seed" is set in a modern prison, a starkly different context that shapes a new perspective on the same themes. Felix, like Prospero, manipulates his environment to suit his needs, but he does so through the medium of theatre rather than magic. He states, "Theatre is a mirror, a sharp reflection of society." This suggests that, in the modern context, art and creativity are the tools used to reshape reality, reflecting contemporary beliefs about the power of art to influence society.

Both texts also explore the theme of revenge and forgiveness, further demonstrating how context shapes meaning. In "The Tempest", Prospero ultimately chooses forgiveness over revenge, stating, "The rarer action is in virtue than in vengeance." This reflects the Christian values of Shakespeare's time, where forgiveness was seen as a noble virtue.

However, in "Hag-Seed", Felix's pursuit of revenge is more ambiguous. He states, "Revenge is sweet...but it's also short-lived." This suggests a more cynical view of revenge, reflecting the modern context where moral absolutes are often questioned.

In conclusion, both "The Tempest" and "Hag-Seed" demonstrate that originality is not about creating something from nothing, but about reshaping and reinterpreting existing ideas. The context of each text significantly influences perspective and shapes meaning, supporting Chabon's assertion that "the concept of originality holds no weight." Through their exploration of themes such as manipulation of reality and revenge, both texts highlight the power of context to shape our understanding of the world.