Lecture on Shakespeare and The Globe Theatre

Introduction to Shakespeare

• Personal connection to Shakespeare through a master's degree in 17th-century literature.
• Shakespeare's characters are considered real and universal, allowing audiences to connect with emotions like Hamlet's or Romeo and Juliet's.
• Shakespeare understood human evolution and emotions.

Early Theatres and The Globe

• 1576: The first theatre, called "The Theatre," was built in Shoreditch.
• Shakespeare's company initially worked there but lost the lease.
• 1599: The original Globe Theatre was constructed using timbers from "The Theatre."

Bankside During Shakespeare's Time

• Considered slightly unseemly, housed playhouses, cockpits, bear-baiting arenas, and brothels.
• Also a manufacturing area with tanners, leatherers, and millers.

The Globe Theatre

• 1599: First Globe Theatre built.
• 1613: Burned down.
• 1614: Second Globe Theatre built.
• 1642: Closed due to English Civil War.
• 1660: The monarchy was restored, but outdoor theatres went out of fashion.

Shakespeare's Legacy

• 18th-century focus on Shakespeare's biography led to a pilgrimage site in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Reconstructing The Globe

• Sam Wanamaker: American actor dedicated to rebuilding The Globe as a living theatre.
• Unique Features:
  • Reconstruction of the 1599 Globe with English green oak and a thatch roof.
  • Fought for approval to use timber and thatch roof in modern London.

Original Practices Productions

• Created by Mark Rylance and team, leveraging the Globe's historical architecture and materials.
• Aimed to learn about historical performances: costumes, music, and acting styles.

Unique Architectural Features of The Globe

• No roof, yard for 700 standing spectators.
• Audience visibility by actors enhances interaction and meaning.

Acting in The Globe

• Challenges due to the absence of modern amenities like amplification and lighting.
• Actors rely on physical performance and Shakespeare's language.

Conclusion

• The reconstructed Globe provides insights into Shakespeare's works and the conditions of his time.