Shakespeare for Freedom: Why the Plays Matter

Shakespeare for Freedom presents a powerful argument for Shakespeare's meaning and value, exploring his influence on theatre, criticism, civic culture, and politics. It highlights his relevance in modern times, including his portrayal in Romeo and Juliet, his recognition by Hegel, and his rehabilitation by Ted Hughes. The book concludes with a positive prognosis for freedom as an ongoing struggle.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 337 pages
\n Publication date: 01 April 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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Shakespeare for Freedom presents a compelling, persuasive, and politically charged argument for Shakespeare's significance and value. Spanning the vast expanse of the Shakespeare phenomenon, it offers a fresh interpretation not only of the characters and plays but also of their role in theatre, criticism, civic culture, and politics. The narrative encompasses a glimpse of Freetown in Romeo and Juliet, brought to vibrant life during the 1769 Stratford Jubilee. It explores the Shakespearean careers of the Leicester Chartist, Cooper, and the Hungarian hero, Kossuth. It also delves into Hegel's recognition of Shakespearean freedom as a modern breakthrough, its tragic consequences in America, Tolstoy's revulsion towards it, Ted Hughes' rehabilitation efforts, and its enigmatic centrality in the 2012 Olympics. Ultimately, Shakespeare for Freedom posits a positive Shakespearean prognosis for freedom as a vital, ongoing struggle. It demonstrates why Shakespeare has mattered for four hundred years and why he continues to hold relevance in the present day.

\n Weight: 496g\n
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781107577251\n \n