The Rest Is History 104. Macbeth
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Oct 4, 2021 Dive into the dark intrigue of Scotland’s infamous king, Macbeth. Uncover the real history versus Shakespeare's portrayal and explore how the 1849 Astor Place Riot was ignited by a performance of the play. Delve into the turbulent politics of early 11th century Scotland and the cultural impact of Macbeth over centuries. Discover the revolutionary Voodoo Macbeth production that challenged norms with its all-Black cast and hear personal anecdotes that connect theater to historical events. It's a riveting blend of history, drama, and identity!
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Astor Place Riot
- In 1849, a Macbeth performance sparked the Astor Place Riot in NYC.
- This riot stemmed from a rivalry between American actor Edwin Forrest and British actor William Charles Macready.
Macbeth's True Character
- The historical Macbeth was a successful king who even pilgrimaged to Rome.
- Shakespeare's portrayal of Macbeth as a tyrant greatly differs from this reality.
Fragmented Scotland
- Early medieval Scotland was a mix of different languages and kingdoms, including Gaelic, Pictish, British, and English speakers.
- These included regions like Lothian (English), Strathclyde (British), Dalriada (Gaelic), and Pictland (Pictish).