Playing Shakespeare's Monarchs and Madmen

Playing Shakespeares Monarchs and Madmen is the third volume in the Peter Lang series, exploring the concepts of monarchy, leadership, melancholy, and madness with references to Elizabethan and Jacobean studies, Trump, Brexit, cross-gender and multi-cultural casting, and the lessons they hold for us today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2020
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

The third installment in the Peter Lang series, Playing Shakespeare's Characters, titled Playing Shakespeares Monarchs and Madmen delves into a comprehensive exploration of the concepts of monarchy, leadership, melancholy, and madness. Drawing from a diverse array of contributors, including actors, directors, scholars, educators, and more, this volume offers insightful perspectives on these themes, drawing upon both Elizabethan and Jacobean studies as well as contemporary references such as Trump, Brexit, cross-gender and multi-cultural casting.

In the 21st century, the question of "playing the king" takes on a particularly poignant significance. What does it entail to embody a monarch in a world that has undergone profound transformations? Moreover, in the age of spin, the role of the "all-licensed" Fool becomes increasingly important as they navigate the complexities of political discourse. Who has the privilege of representing the power dynamics in Shakespeare's plays, and how do these representations shape our understanding of power?

This volume takes a deep dive into the portrayals of various dukes and monarchs in Shakespeare's plays, including Henry IV, Richard III, Hamlet, Lear, and others. By examining these characters, the book explores the ways in which men and women approach these portrayals of power and the valuable lessons they hold for us today. Through their analyses, contributors shed light on the complexities of leadership, the dynamics of power struggles, and the impact of societal norms and expectations on individuals and societies.

Playing Shakespeares Monarchs and Madmen serves as a thought-provoking and timely exploration of the enduring themes of power, leadership, and the human condition. It offers valuable insights into Shakespeare's plays and their relevance to contemporary audiences, encouraging us to reflect on the lessons we can learn from these timeless narratives.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433175220
Edition number: New ed