- COMEDIES OF FORGIVENESS - humanum genus: The 'oppressor,' one who requires forgiveness by the end of the play - inherent evil of humanity/possibility for good a constant presence in these plays - Originates from medieval dramas, pre-Shakespearean plays and desire for forgiveness in drama - Christians seek forgiveness from God; Shakespeare extends that to receiving forgiveness from family/loved ones/humanity - Shakespeare's comedies of forgiveness underline the inherent evil of humanity as well as their need for forgiveness; as man will always sin, they will always need to be forgiven
- SIX COMEDIES ...