King Lear 'After' Auschwitz: Shakespeare, Appropriation and Theatres of Catastrophe in Post-War British Drama

Provides the first dedicated study on appropriations of King Lear in British playwriting of the post-war, developing valuable new perspectives on the legacy of Shakespeare in post-war drama and culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This groundbreaking study is the first dedicated exploration of King Lear in British playwriting after World War II, offering invaluable new insights into the enduring legacy of Shakespeare in post-war drama and culture.

The book delves deeply into the ways in which Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece has been interpreted and reimagined by British playwrights in the decades following the war. Through a comprehensive analysis of a selection of plays, the author demonstrates how these writers have used King Lear as a vehicle for exploring themes of power, justice, morality, and the human condition.

One of the key themes that emerges from the study is the ways in which King Lear reflects the post-war political climate. The play explores the complex dynamics of power and authority, particularly in the context of political authority and the abuse of power. The author argues that King Lear serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of democratic governance.

Another important theme that the study explores is the role of justice in King Lear. The play depicts the tragic consequences of a society that fails to uphold the principles of justice and equality. The author argues that King Lear highlights the importance of a fair and impartial legal system and the need for individuals to stand up against injustice and oppression.

The study also examines the moral and ethical dimensions of King Lear. The play explores the complex relationship between good and evil, and the ways in which individuals can navigate the moral maze of life. The author argues that King Lear offers valuable lessons about the importance of empathy, compassion, and self-reflection, and the ways in which these qualities can help individuals to make ethical decisions.

In addition to its analysis of the themes and characters of King Lear, the study also provides a valuable historical context for the plays that are examined. The author discusses the social and cultural changes that occurred in Britain in the post-war years, and how these changes influenced the interpretation and reception of Shakespeare's plays. The study also explores the impact of the war on British playwriting, and how playwrights responded to the challenges and opportunities that the war presented.

Overall, this groundbreaking study is a valuable contribution to the field of Shakespeare studies. It offers new perspectives on the legacy of Shakespeare in post-war drama and culture, and demonstrates the enduring relevance of his plays to contemporary audiences. The study will be of interest to scholars, students, and anyone who is interested in the intersection of literature, politics, and culture.

This groundbreaking study is the first dedicated exploration of King Lear in British playwriting after World War II, offering invaluable new insights into the enduring legacy of Shakespeare in post-war drama and culture.

The book delves deeply into the ways in which Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece has been interpreted and reimagined by British playwrights in the decades following the war. Through a comprehensive analysis of a selection of plays, the author demonstrates how these writers have used King Lear as a vehicle for exploring themes of power, justice, morality, and the human condition.

One of the key themes that emerges from the study is the ways in which King Lear reflects the post-war political climate. The play explores the complex dynamics of power and authority. The author argues that King Lear serves as a cautionary tale, tale about the dangers of unchecked authority. The author argues that King Lear highlights the importance of a fair and impartial legal system and the need for individuals to stand up against injustice and oppression.

Another important theme that the study explores is the role of justice in King Lear. The play depicts the tragic consequences of a society that fails to uphold the principles of justice and equality. The author argues that King Lear highlights the importance of a fair and impartial legal system and the need for individuals to stand up against injustice and oppression.

The study also examines the moral and ethical dimensions of King Lear. The play explores the complex relationship between good and evil, and the ways in which individuals can navigate the moral maze of life. The author argues that King Lear offers valuable lessons about the importance of empathy, compassion, and self-reflection, and the ways in which these qualities can help individuals to make ethical decisions.

In addition to its analysis of the themes and characters of King Lear, the study also provides a valuable historical context for the plays that are examined. The author discusses the social and cultural changes that occurred in Britain in the post-war years, and how these changes influenced the interpretation and reception of Shakespeare's plays. The study also explores the impact of the war on British playwriting, and how playwrights.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474477994