The History of English Podcast Episode 175: The English of Romeo and Juliet
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Mar 25, 2024 Exploring the linguistic nuances and pronunciation changes in Shakespeare's works, highlighting the evolution of terms and sounds in Early Modern English. Delving into the historical evolution of English pronunciation, tracing the disappearance of hard 'g' sounds and the development of the ING sound. Analyzing Shakespeare's linguistic techniques in Romeo and Juliet, focusing on syntax, word order, and Juliet's contemplation on names. Exploring the evolution of vowel sounds in Elizabethan English, impacting words like 'bob' and 'cough, and hinting at the emergence of a distinct American accent.
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Early Romeo and Juliet Versions
- The first printed Romeo and Juliet version differs from the later Folio.
- It was based on an early draft or unauthorized reproduction, prompting a better version in 1599.
Romeo and Juliet's Origins
- Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet wasn't original; it adapted an older Italian story.
- Luigi da Porto's version in the early 1500s already contained recognizable elements.
Shakespeare's Love Stories
- In Shakespeare's time, men played all female roles due to stage restrictions.
- This absence of women influenced his writing of love stories, emphasizing language over physical intimacy.