Honors Student Explores Revenge and the Human Mind in Shakespearean Tragedy
Rebeca Viramontes, an English major at Moreno Valley College, is drawing academic attention with her honors research on Shakespeare’s portrayal of revenge through the lens of humoral theory and humanism.
Set to graduate in spring 2025, Viramontes said her passion for literature and literary analysis inspired her to tackle two of Shakespeare’s most tragic plays—Titus Andronicus and Hamlet—for her Honors British Literature project.
“I hadn’t read either of the texts before, so I approached them with a fresh, unbiased mind,” she said. “My professor made them sound so fascinating—and as someone who loves reading and analysis, I couldn’t resist.”
Her research examines how Shakespeare employs Renaissance-era concepts, particularly humoral theory, which associates physical health with emotional and psychological states. She examines how revenge warps the human mind and spirit. In doing so, she argues, the plays offer timeless warnings about the dangers of unchecked emotion.
“Revenge, though often fictionalized, can absolutely reflect real-life consequences,” Viramontes said. “Shakespeare may have written these centuries ago, but the emotional truths still resonate. He’s showing us what happens when we allow ourselves to be ruled by emotion instead of reason and mercy.”
The project required extensive reading, critical analysis, and revision. For Viramontes, the most challenging part was integrating complex theories into a cohesive argument. Still, the reward came in sharing her findings.
“Once I had a semi-smooth draft, it became fun,” she said. “I especially loved exploring how the path to revenge may differ from character to character but still leads to the same outcome—downfall.”
The experience not only deepened her literary understanding but also helped her grow as a writer.
“I’ve learned so much about my own writing style and what I’m capable of,” she said. “If you’re thinking about taking on an honors contract, go for it. Do something you’re passionate about and keep communication open with your professor. That made all the difference for me.”
After graduation, Viramontes plans to save money and transfer to a university to continue studying English. In the meantime, she hopes her research encourages others to consider literature’s lasting relevance—and how student voices can offer fresh perspectives on timeless themes.
“Revenge is all-consuming,” she said. “But even in tragedy, Shakespeare leaves room for hope—reminding us that mercy and fairness are what build a better future.”
Read Viramontes’ full research paper, titled Hamlet, Titus Andronicus, and the Vicious Cycle of Revenge: An Exploration of Shakespeare’s Use of Humoral Theory & Humanism.