Shakespeare's Accents: Voicing Identity in Performance

This book explores the history of Shakespearean performance and how accents have been perceived as central markers of identity. It argues that theatre makers, reformers, linguists, and directors have all played a role in shaping how accents have evolved over the last four hundred years.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Voices and accents have emerged as prominent identifiers of identity in Shakespearean performances, with this book delving into the historical reception of Shakespeare on the English stage, particularly emphasizing the vocal aspects of theatrical performances. The chapters highlight significant instances where English accents have sparked controversy and even public outrage. Sonia Massai explores the cultural implications associated with various accents and how they have triggered concerns about national, regional, and social identities that are (re)constructed through Shakespearean performances. She contends that theater makers, reformers, elocutionists, historical linguists, directors, actors, and producers have all played a significant role in shaping the evolution and transformation of accents on the Shakespearean stage over the past four hundred years. This captivating book provides a comprehensive historical survey complemented by detailed performance analysis.

Introduction:
In the realm of Shakespearean performance, voices and accents have assumed an increasingly significant role as markers of identity. This book explores the historical reception of Shakespeare on the English stage, with a particular focus on the vocal dimensions of theatrical performances. It seeks to identify key moments when English accents have stirred controversy, if not public outrage. By examining the cultural connotations associated with different accents, the book also sheds light on how accents have catalyzed concerns about national, regional, and social identities that are (re)constituted in and through Shakespearean performances.

The Cultural Significance of Accents:
Accents play a vital role in shaping cultural identities, and Shakespearean performances are no exception. Different accents carry with them specific cultural connotations, which can influence how audiences perceive and interpret characters. Sonia Massai delves into the cultural implications associated with various English accents and how they have contributed to the construction of national, regional, and social identities. She argues that theater makers, reformers, elocutionists, historical linguists, directors, actors, and producers have all played a significant role in shaping the evolution and transformation of accents on the Shakespearean stage over the past four hundred years.

Controversies and Outrage:
Throughout history, English accents have sparked controversies and public outrage. Certain accents have been associated with specific social classes, regions, or ethnicities, leading to assumptions about characters' backgrounds and identities. In Shakespearean performances, accents have been used to convey social status, power dynamics, and cultural differences, often leading to misunderstandings and tensions among audiences.

The Impact of Theatre Makers and Reformers:
Theatre makers and reformers have played a crucial role in shaping the reception of Shakespeare on the English stage. They have advocated for more inclusive and diverse casting practices, which have led to the representation of a broader range of accents and identities. Elocutionists have also worked to improve the pronunciation and delivery of Shakespearean lines, contributing to a more accessible and engaging performance experience. Historical linguists have studied the evolution of English accents and their historical context, providing valuable insights into the development of Shakespearean performance.

Directors, Actors, and Producers:
Directors, actors, and producers have also had a significant impact on how accents have evolved and changed on the Shakespearean stage. They have experimented with different accents and dialects to convey specific characters' backgrounds and identities, often challenging traditional assumptions and stereotypes. Actors have developed their own unique vocal styles and techniques to bring characters to life, further contributing to the diversity and richness of Shakespearean performances.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, voices and accents have emerged as central markers of identity in Shakespearean performances. This book offers a rich historical survey alongside close performance analysis, highlighting the cultural significance of accents and the controversies and outrage they have sparked. It demonstrates the profound impact of theater makers, reformers, elocutionists, historical linguists, directors, actors, and producers on the evolution and transformation of accents on the Shakespearean stage over the past four hundred years. By exploring the vocal dimensions of theatrical performances, this book provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between identity, culture, and performance in Shakespearean plays.

Weight: 343g
ISBN-13: 9781108454612