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Parallel Structure of Topological Space in Shakespeare’s Cymbeline
CHEN Xiao-feng
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DOI:10.17265/2159-5836/2022.11.002
College of International Studies, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
Topology is a newly branch of mathematics, dealing with the non-qualitative properties of members within a solid topological space. In a broad sense, space is considered as an arena to exemplify the power relations, and power relationship becomes a dominant property within a topological space in a holistic way. Recently, topology has been allied with literary criticism, arising as a transdisciplinary approach. In Shakespeare’s Cymbeline, three physical places—namely chamber, cave and battlefield—function as three individual topological places due to the commonality of power relationship within each place. At first, Innogen, the female protagonist who is enclosed in her chamber, becomes an object of supervision and scrutiny by triplex authorities, thus female body gains a metaphorical meaning within the topological boundary. Later, she changes costumes and enters the cave, embodying as the other in terms of power relations, where gender awareness becomes blurred. Finally, Innogen moves to the battlefield, gets access to the court, a public topological space symbolizing male authority, and launches an equal dialogue with men, thus constructing a brave female image. From chamber to the battlefield, Innogen’s self-saving trip set up a parallel structure of topological space and a token for the subversiveness of hierarchy social order dominated by royalty, paternity and the absolute authority of husband in early Renaissance.
parallel structure, topological space, Shakespeare, Cymbeline
Journal of Literature and Art Studies, November 2022, Vol. 12, No. 11, 1095-1103
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