Lecture on Shakespeare: Influence and Mysteries

Introduction

• Speaker discusses the pervasive influence of Shakespeare in our lives.
• Mentions how often people quote Shakespeare unknowingly.

Global Presence of Shakespeare

• Shakespeare's influence extends globally, similar to the spread of Canada geese.
• Festivals and Theaters
  • Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Ontario, North America’s largest theater festival.
  • Bard on the Beach in Vancouver.
  • Shakespeare festivals across the USA (e.g., Ashland, Oregon).
  • The Globe in London and the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Quoting Shakespeare

• Audience participation: Recognizing common phrases that originate from Shakespeare.
• Phrases we use daily without knowing their origin ("Greek to me," "Green-eyed jealousy," etc.).

The Private Man: Shakespeare’s Personal Life

• Shakespeare as a playwright, producer, and actor.
• Discussion of a sonnet often used at weddings and celebrations: "Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer's Day."

Theories Around the Sonnet

• Possible eulogy for Shakespeare's son, Hamnet.
• Shakespeare's personal tragedy: losing his son while working in London.
• Speculation about Shakespeare expressing his grief through his poetry.

Shakespeare’s Works: Themes and Characters

• References to "Richard III" and "Henry V."
• Discussion on "Richard III":
  • Richard, Duke of Gloucester, characterized as malevolent and ambitious.
  • Shakespeare's complex character portrayal making the audience complicit.

Richard III’s Opening Soliloquy

• "Now is the winter of our discontent…"
• Richard's determination to prove a villain due to his physical deformities and perceived lack of love.

Shakespeare's Timeless Relevance

• Shakespeare's themes of discontent and ambition resonate with modern-day issues (e.g., Occupy Wall Street).
• Shakespeare seen as a source of inspiration and leadership in trying times.

Conclusion

• The enduring magic and mystery of Shakespeare's works.
• Encouragement to appreciate the depth and influence of Shakespeare beyond what is commonly known.