Not Just the Tudors
Shakespeare's Daughter, Judith
Mar 3, 2025
Grace Tiffany, a Professor of Shakespeare and author of 'The Owl Was a Baker's Daughter,' highlights the intriguing life of Judith Shakespeare, William Shakespeare's overlooked twin sister. They discuss how Judith's experiences mirror contemporary issues like religious extremism and women's struggles in male-dominated fields. Listeners learn about her bond with twin brother Hamnet, the impact of personal loss on Shakespeare's works, and Judith's fight for identity amidst scandal and societal expectations during a tumultuous political era.
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Quick takeaways
- Judith Shakespeare's life after Hamnet illustrates the struggles of women in male-dominated professions amidst the chaos of 17th-century England.
- The narrative creatively explores Judith's emotional journey, emphasizing her resilience and the complex dynamics of her relationship with her father, William Shakespeare.
Deep dives
Judith Shakespeare's Journey
Judith Shakespeare, the lesser-known twin of Hamnet, takes center stage in a new novel that explores her life after the tragic loss of her brother. This narrative introduces Judith in her sixties as she flees accusations of witchcraft, reflecting broader themes of chaos and conflict during a tumultuous period in England. The story highlights her struggles as a midwife and apothecary, navigating her way through societal challenges while confronting the ghosts of her past. The historical context of the English Civil War adds depth, showcasing how political upheaval mirrors her personal battles.
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