Tam O'Shanter: Theme; Human Pleasure

“Tam O’Shanter: Theme; Human Pleasure”

Understanding the Theme:

  • “Tam O’Shanter” is a tale full of human pleasure and amusement, besides its elements of fear and courage.
  • The protagonist, Tam O’Shanter, indulges in merriment and revelry, giving readers insight into Burns’ representation of human pleasure.

Pleasure in Tam’s Life

  • Tam’s frequent visits to the tavern, his enjoyment of alcohol and the company of his friends highlight his inclination towards simple pleasures.
  • Despite the hardships of his domestic life, he seeks solace and pleasure in his evenings spent at the inn.

The Consequences of Pleasure

  • The narrative also addresses the consequences of such pleasures. Tam’s indulgence often leads him to trouble, particularly with his wife, Kate.
  • His late-night revelry leads to his terrifying encounter with the supernatural, revealing a dark side to human pleasure.

Merriment Amidst Macabre

  • One crucial scene in the poem sees witches and warlocks dancing with devilish glee, providing a grotesque, yet intriguing depiction of pleasure amidst the supernatural.
  • This scene, coupled with Tam’s fascinated, albeit horrified, observation demonstrates the entanglement of pleasure and horror in the narrative.

Pleasure as a Human Instinct

  • Burns may be suggesting that the pursuit of pleasure is a fundamental aspect of human nature, intrinsic to all - even witches and warlocks.
  • Despite the grim setting and supernatural elements, Burns emphasizes on the basic human instinct for enjoyment and pleasure.

Treatment of the Theme: Irony and Satire

  • Burns uses irony and satire in illustrating the theme of human pleasure.
  • While Tam’s pursuits of pleasure lead to his near downfall, Burns also satirically portrays these pleasures as being essentially human.

Concluding Thoughts

  • The theme of human pleasure in “Tam O’Shanter” adds depth to the poem’s narrative.
  • This theme, combined with Burns’ treatment of it using irony and satire, enhances the poem, showcasing Burns’ ability to weave a complex and compelling narrative.