Memorialising Shakespeare: Commemoration and Collective Identity, 1916-2016

This book is the first comprehensive account of global Shakespeare commemoration in the period between 1916 and 2016, covering Shakespeare commemoration in China, Ukraine, Egypt, France, Great Britain, and the United States. It discusses a broad range of commemorative activities, including pageants, dance, dramatic performances, sculpture, conferences, exhibitions, and more private acts of engagement. Themes covered include Shakespeare's role in the formation of cultural memory and national and global identities, as well as his relationship to decolonization and race.

Format: Hardback
Length: 321 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book is a groundbreaking exploration of global Shakespeare commemoration from 1916 to 2016, combining historical analysis with insights into current practices. Spanning various countries including China, Ukraine, Egypt, France, Great Britain, and the United States, Memorialising Shakespeare delves into the diverse ways in which Shakespeare is remembered and celebrated worldwide.

Chapter authors, each experts in their respective fields, discuss a wide array of commemorative activities, ranging from pageants and dance performances to dramatic readings and sculptures. These activities are not limited to public events but also include more private acts of engagement, such as reading and diary writing.

The book explores the profound impact of Shakespeare on cultural memory and national and global identities. It also examines his relationship to decolonisation and race, shedding light on the ways in which his works continue to resonate with contemporary issues.

A significant aspect of Memorialising Shakespeare is the inclusion of chapters from organisers of recent Shakespeare commemoration events. These chapters provide valuable firsthand accounts of the challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned from these celebrations. By sharing their experiences, the organisers offer valuable insights into the practices and strategies employed in commemorating Shakespeare.

Together, the chapters in Memorialising Shakespeare provide a comprehensive and multifaceted account of global Shakespeare commemoration. They showcase the diverse ways in which communities, identity groups, and institutions come together to commemorate Shakespeare, highlighting the significance of his works in shaping our understanding of the world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespeare, cultural memory, and the power of commemorative practices.

Weight: 565g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030840129
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021