Will

Definition

In literature, 'will' often refers to the concept of determination, intention, or desire that drives characters and narratives forward. It embodies the notion of agency, as characters exercise their will to make choices that shape their destinies and influence the events around them. This term is crucial in understanding themes of free will versus determinism, where the tension between a character's desires and external constraints plays a significant role in the unfolding of the story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Will' is often portrayed as a driving force behind a character's motivations, influencing their decisions and actions throughout the narrative.
2. In 'Piers Plowman', the character's will is explored in relation to social justice, morality, and personal responsibility, reflecting medieval values.
3. The tension between individual will and societal expectations is a recurring theme, prompting questions about the limits of personal agency.
4. Characters may struggle with their will due to external pressures or internal conflicts, highlighting the complexities of human nature and decision-making.
5. The concept of will can lead to significant transformations in characters as they confront obstacles, illustrating growth or decline based on their choices.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of 'will' affect character development in 'Piers Plowman'?
  • 'Will' plays a crucial role in character development by driving their motivations and decisions. In 'Piers Plowman', characters navigate moral dilemmas that challenge their intentions and desires. This struggle reveals their inner conflicts and contributes to their growth or downfall as they confront societal pressures and personal aspirations.
• Discuss how the themes of free will and fate intersect in 'Piers Plowman'.
  • In 'Piers Plowman', free will is often contrasted with fate, creating a dynamic tension throughout the narrative. Characters are faced with choices that reflect their desires and moral responsibilities, while also grappling with societal expectations and divine providence. This interplay raises questions about the extent of individual agency versus predestined outcomes, shaping how readers understand the consequences of character decisions.
• Evaluate the impact of societal norms on individual will in 'Piers Plowman', particularly regarding moral choices.
  • 'Piers Plowman' critically examines how societal norms influence individual will, especially concerning moral choices. Characters often find their desires at odds with societal expectations, leading to internal struggles that highlight the complexities of moral responsibility. This evaluation reveals how characters navigate their personal convictions while contending with the pressures of medieval society, ultimately shaping their identities and destinies.

Related terms

Free Will: The philosophical idea that individuals have the power to make choices independent of any predetermined fate or external influences.

Fate: The belief that events are predetermined and inevitable, often in opposition to the concept of free will, leading to discussions about the control characters have over their lives.

Agency: The capacity of characters to act independently and make their own choices, reflecting their will and intentions in the narrative.