Shakespeare and Civil Unrest in Britain and the United States

Shakespeare and Civil Unrest in Britain and the United States explores how the plays have been invoked during periods of extreme social, political, and racial turmoil, revealing a fascinating genealogy of how Shakespeare became a dynamic presence in factional discourse and the war of words that has accompanied civil wars and other instances of domestic disturbance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Shakespeare and Civil Unrest in Britain and the United States is a significant addition to the growing body of scholarship on Shakespeare's appropriation, delving into the ways in which his plays have been invoked during periods of extreme social, political, and racial turmoil. This book explores the distinct ways in which Shakespeare is adapted, studied, and discussed during civil conflicts, comparing them to wars between nations. It also examines how these conflicts have impacted the understanding and interpretation of Shakespeare in these two countries, which, more than any others, continue to be deeply shaped by his complex, enduring, and multivalent legacy.

The essays in this volume collectively reveal a captivating genealogy of how Shakespeare emerged as a dynamic presence in factional discourse. They also explore the war of words that has accompanied civil wars and other instances of domestic disturbance. Shakespeare's repeated appearance during such turbulent moments is not mere historical coincidence but rather a reflection of his profound influence on our understanding of internecine strife in both countries.

Through his plays, Shakespeare addressed the contested meanings of citizenship, community, and political legitimacy, which continue to be relevant in contemporary times. His characters, their struggles, and their triumphs resonated with audiences across different periods and cultures, providing a lens through which to examine the complexities of civil unrest.

In Britain, Shakespeare's plays have been used to explore the social and political tensions of the past, such as the English Civil Wars and the Industrial Revolution. His works have been interpreted as a commentary on the power dynamics between different groups, the struggles for political representation, and the challenges of social change.

In the United States, Shakespeare has been used to address issues of race, slavery, and civil rights. His plays, such as "Othello," "King Lear," and "Antony and Cleopatra," have been interpreted as a reflection of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the complexities of power dynamics within marginalized communities.

Moreover, Shakespeare's plays have been used as a tool for social activism and protest. During the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, his works were used to raise awareness about the injustices faced by African Americans and to advocate for change. Activists and artists have staged performances, readings, and interpretations of Shakespeare's plays to highlight the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice.

In conclusion, Shakespeare and Civil Unrest in Britain and the United States is a valuable contribution to the field of Shakespeare studies. It explores the ways in which Shakespeare's plays have been invoked during periods of civil unrest, comparing them to wars between nations. Through its essays, the book reveals a fascinating genealogy of how Shakespeare became a dynamic presence in factional discourse and explores the war of words that has accompanied civil wars and other instances of domestic disturbance. Shakespeare's repeated appearance during such turbulent moments is not mere historical coincidence but rather a reflection of his profound influence on our understanding of internecine strife in both countries. Whether as part of violent confrontations, mutinies, rebellions, or within the universal struggle for civil rights, Shakespeare's plays continue to inspire and inform our understanding of the complexities of civil unrest and the importance of social justice.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367741990