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16. Carnage in New York: Killing Over Shakespeare (Ep 1)

Journey Through Time

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Rivalry and Identity in 19th Century Theater

This chapter explores the fierce rivalry between two Shakespearean actors, MacReady and Forrest, whose contrasting styles reflect broader social and cultural divides in 1840s New York. Their competition not only highlights personal animosities but also symbolizes the class and national identity struggles of the era, culminating in a dramatic confrontation during a performance of Macbeth. The narrative reveals how their feud illustrates the complexities of American art as society grapples with its own identity separate from British influences.

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