The Theme of Ambition in “All’s Well That Ends Well”

The Theme of Ambition in “All’s Well That Ends Well”

In William Shakespeare’s play, “All’s Well That Ends Well,” the theme of ambition plays a significant role in shaping and informing the relationship between the characters of Helena, Bertram, and the Countess. Through their ambitions, these characters navigate the complexities of love, power, and social status, leading to both personal growth and moral dilemmas. The theme of ambition not only drives the actions of these characters but also exposes their flaws, insecurities, and desires. Ultimately, it is through their pursuit of ambitious goals that their relationships are tested, transformed, and ultimately resolved.

One of the key relationships that illustrate the impact of ambition is between Helena and Bertram. Helena, a low-born orphan, harbors an intense desire to win the love and respect of Bertram, a nobleman. Her ambition is evident from the beginning when she seeks the help of the King to cure his illness, even though she knows it is a difficult task. Helena’s determination and conviction are revealed in her words to the King:

“I hold me not to blame to be thus bold,
For what I speak I think I speak in cold.
But this I think there’s no man is so vain
That would refuse so rare a gentlewoman.”
(2.1.150-153)

 

Here, Helena’s ambition to win Bertram’s love is driven by her belief in her own worthiness. She sees herself as an exceptional woman who deserves to be loved and desired by a man of high social status.

Bertram’s ambitions, on the other hand, are primarily focused on his military career and his desire for power and recognition. He sees himself as a superior individual due to his noble birth and believes he deserves a woman of higher rank than Helena. This is evident in his dismissal of Helena when he says:

“I know her well:
She had her breeding at my father’s charge.
A poor physician’s daughter my wife! Disdain
Rather corrupt me ever!”
(2.3.108-111)

 

Bertram’s ambition blinds him to Helena’s qualities because he is too fixated on his own social status. His refusal to accept Helena as his wife highlights the conflict between his personal ambitions and his duty as a husband.

The Countess, Bertram’s mother, also plays a crucial role in the relationship between Helena and Bertram. Her ambition lies in seeing her son happy and fulfilled. The Countess recognizes Helena’s worth and supports her in her pursuit of Bertram’s love. In a conversation with Helena, she reveals her understanding of Bertram’s ambitious nature:

“You shall find in him the springing
Of your blood, the fostering of your need.
What hath he sent her?”
(3.4.7-9)

 

The Countess acknowledges that Bertram’s ambitious nature is inherited from his mother, making her more sympathetic towards Helena’s cause. Her ambition for Bertram’s happiness allows her to see beyond social status and appreciate Helena for who she is.

Throughout the play, the theme of ambition presents challenges and conflicts within the relationship between Helena, Bertram, and the Countess. It forces the characters to confront their own desires, insecurities, and societal expectations. However, it is also through their ambitions that they are able to grow as individuals and ultimately find resolution.

In conclusion, the theme of ambition shapes and informs the relationship between Helena, Bertram, and the Countess in “All’s Well That Ends Well.” Their individual ambitions drive their actions and decisions, exposing their flaws and desires. While ambition tests their relationships initially, it also leads to personal growth and transformation. The play highlights how ambition can both propel characters towards success and create moral dilemmas. Ultimately, it is through the pursuit of their ambitious goals that these characters learn valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and self-discovery.