Shakespeare, the Renaissance and Empire: Volume I: Geography and Language

Shakespeare, the Renaissance, and Empire explores Shakespeare's trans-cultural writing by examining the interrelationships of binaries such as theory and practice, past and present, aesthetics and ethics, freedom and tyranny, republic and empire, empires and colonies, poetry and history, rhetoric and poetics, England and America, and England and Asia. It presents a universal Shakespeare, exposing readers to his relevance and significance in their local contexts and cultures. The book's originality lies in its articulation of the importance and value of Shakespeare in the emerging landscape of global culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Shakespeare, the Renaissance, and Empire explores Shakespeare's multifaceted artistry as both a local and global writer, delving into his trans-cultural writing through the interplay of binaries such as theory and practice, past and present, aesthetics and ethics, freedom and tyranny, republic and empire, empires and colonies, poetry and history, rhetoric and poetics, England and America, and England and Asia. This groundbreaking book departs from traditional Western-centric analysis to present a universal Shakespeare, exposing readers to the relevance and significance of Shakespeare within their local contexts and cultures.

The text aims to present a global Shakespeare, utilizing a dual perspective or dialects, primarily centered on questions of (1) how Shakespeare can be viewed as both an English writer and a world writer; (2) how language operates across genres and kinds of discourse; and (3) how Shakespeare helps to articulate a poetics of both texts (literature) and contexts (cultures). The book's originality lies in its articulate expression of the importance and value of Shakespeare in the emerging landscape of global culture.

Shakespeare's trans-cultural writing is evident in his exploration of themes such as love, power, politics, and identity, which transcend national boundaries and resonate with audiences worldwide. His plays, sonnets, and other literary works have been translated into numerous languages and have been performed in various countries, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.

The book also examines the influence of Shakespeare on other writers and artists throughout history, highlighting his impact on literature, drama, music, and visual art. It explores how Shakespeare's language and poetic devices have been adopted and adapted by different cultures, creating new interpretations and adaptations of his works.

Furthermore, the book discusses the challenges and complexities of translating Shakespeare's works into different languages and cultures, emphasizing the importance of preserving his original language and style while also adapting them to resonate with local audiences. It highlights the role of translators, directors, and performers in bringing Shakespeare's works to life in different cultural contexts.

In conclusion, Shakespeare, the Renaissance, and Empire presents Shakespeare as both a local and global writer, investigating his trans-cultural writing through the interrelations and interactions of binaries. It offers a comprehensive and innovative perspective on Shakespeare's artistry, highlighting his relevance and significance in the emerging landscape of global culture. By presenting a universal Shakespeare, the book encourages readers to explore the richness and diversity of his works and to appreciate their enduring impact on literature, drama, and society culture.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367635220