
Episode 180: English on the Move
The History of English Podcast
00:00
Shakespeare and the Roots of Colonization
This chapter explores the intersection of Shakespeare's notable plays, Macbeth and King Lear, with the historical context of early 17th-century English colonization. It highlights Shakespeare's thematic shift reflecting the political climate under King James I, alongside language innovations that shaped English literature. The narrative also details the struggles faced by the first settlers at Jamestown and their interactions with local tribes, emphasizing the complexities of early American colonization.
Transcript
Play full episode