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: Paperback / softback
Length: 321 pages
Publication date: 18 December 2022
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, drawn from a wide range of expertise, discuss a diverse 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, national and global identities, and the ongoing struggle for decolonisation and race. It sheds light on the ways in which Shakespeare's works have been appropriated, adapted, and reimagined to address contemporary social and political issues.

One of the key features 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 in commemorating Shakespeare in different contexts. They offer insights into the strategies employed, the partnerships formed, and the impact of these events on communities, identity groups, and institutions.

Together, the chapters in Memorialising Shakespeare provide a comprehensive and multifaceted account of global Shakespeare commemoration. They showcase the rich diversity of commemorative practices, the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's works, and the power of his legacy to inspire and unite people across cultures and generations. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, educators, and anyone interested in exploring the global significance of Shakespeare and his enduring impact on world culture.

Weight: 445g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030840150
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021