Some people have a real aversion to Shakespeare. And other people think every word he wrote is pure perfection. Such uncritical worship is known as Bardolatry, and while this sort of snobbery has relocated in recent years (try suggesting The Beatles were overrated and see what happens), surely there must be some middle ground?
Since April sees the anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth and death – both appropriately enough on St George’s Day – I thought I’d offer some suggestions for those who have so far resisted the Bard’s charms.
Choosing the right play is terribly important, Henry VI Part 2 probably isn’t the best starting point. The histories can occasionally be heavy going, Henry V is an excellent place to begin, but the play’s themes of English pride and patriotism make it unpopular with many of today’s progressive theatre directors. And while Hamlet might seem an obvious first choice, it doesn’t half go on a bit.
I’d strongly recommend seeing the plays rather than just reading them, academics often forget that they were written to be performed. And do beware the purists who throw tantrums when confronted with updated or edited productions.
Macbeth
Murder and witchcraft are intertwined with a brilliant examination of power and manipulation. And it’s nice and short.
Julius Caesar
The eponymous Roman’s assassination (spoilers) leads to corrpution and in-fighting. Mark Anthony’s “Friends, Romans, Countrymen” address is rightly lauded as a supreme example of rhetoric.
The Tempest
The Shakespearian equivalent of a nice woolly jumper, this final (probably) play deals with the power of forgiveness and is a haunting paean to the importance of letting go. A word of warning though, if you see a production advertised starring Michael Pennington, run for the hills.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Comedy is always subjective, as anyone forced to sit through Mrs Brown’s Boys will know. Some of Shakespeare’s more obscure wordplay is difficult to appreciate and even more difficult to laugh at, but this one’s plenty of fun. If there’s not a local production this summer I’ll buy a hat and eat it.
And one to avoid.
Richard III
Trust me, it’s really boring.