Shakespeare and the Cultural Politics of Conversion

Shakespeare's plays, such as "The Taming of the Shrew," "Henry IV Part I," "The Merchant of Venice," "Othello," and "The Tempest," explore the concept of conversion in post-Reformation England, making a unique and substantive intervention in public discourse and speaking meaningfully about conversional experience for audiences today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 18 September 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Shakespeare and the Cultural Politics of Conversion delves into a comprehensive examination of Shakespeare's intricate relationship with the vibrant and contentious realm of conversion in post-Reformation England. During this era, the concept of conversion encompassed a wide range of ideas, practices, and arguments, revolving around the process by which individuals could transition from one category of identity to another. In his insightful analysis, Professor Stephen Wittek explores the profound impact of Shakespearean drama on public discourse surrounding conversion, demonstrating how it made a unique and substantial contribution to the ongoing conversation. Through a series of chapter-length readings of renowned plays such as The Taming of the Shrew, Henry IV Part I, The Merchant of Venice, Othello, and The Tempest, Professor Wittek argues that Shakespearean drama continues to resonate with audiences in the present age, offering valuable insights into the complexities of conversational experience. This book will be of immense interest to students and scholars engaged in theatrical history, performance theory, cultural studies, race studies, and gender studies, as it provides a rich tapestry of perspectives and methodologies to explore the multifaceted aspects of conversion and its enduring significance in shaping English society.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031119606
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022