Question

Why did Elizabeth feel that she was responsible for the murder?

Answer 1

Elizabeth feels responsible for murder due to her direct or indirect involvement in events leading to a death, causing her to grapple with guilt and remorse, which are common themes in literature and drama.

Step-by-step explanation:

Elizabeth feels responsible for the murder in various literary works due to different reasons specific to each context. In the passages provided, characters like Editha and Venters bear the weight of guilt and responsibility for actions that led to deadly outcomes. Editha's guilt arises from her encouragement of George going off to war, which ultimately leads to his death. She feels her words and support are direct contributing factors to this tragedy. Venters, on the other hand, grapples with the direct responsibility of killing someone who turns out to be related to a person he cares for, deepening his remorse and sense of responsibility.

In the historical context of Elizabeth I and the Elizabethan Settlement, the term 'Elizabeth' refers to a ruler who faced religious and political challenges, actively shaping her nation's history but not typically associated with personal responsibility for a murder in the same way as the literary characters.

Understanding the Burden of Responsibility

In summary, the feeling of being responsible for murder stems from personal involvement, either through influence or direct action, and often leads to an intense psychological struggle with guilt and remorse. These emotional responses are central themes in literature and dramatic portrayals.

Answer 2

Elizabeth felt responsible for murder in various narratives because her actions or wishes indirectly led to someone's death, influenced by emotions such as guilt, coercion, or a desire to do what was believed to be right, despite tragic outcomes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Elizabeth felt responsible for the murder because her actions or wishes led to the deadly outcomes or compromises of moral integrity. For example, in the case of Editha and George, Editha's encouragement for George to enlist and her romanticization of war might have influenced his decision, indirectly leading to his death. Similarly, in another story, the protagonist killed Oldring under the grip of a powerful emotion, thinking that he had wronged Bess, later discovering the unintended consequences of his actions. In the case of Hamlet, the murder is more psychologically complex, as Hamlet struggles with his emotions towards his mother, whom he felt was connected to the crime. These narratives share a common theme where characters grapple with guilt and responsibility in the aftermath of murder, a reflection of their choices and the unforeseen consequences those choices bring about.