Novelist Margaret Drabble reflects on a speech from A Midsummer Night's Dream, discussing its relevance to the English countryside and climate change, and shares a personal anecdote about Judy Dench.
Margaret Drabble's favorite piece of Shakespeare is Titania's speech from A Midsummer Night's Dream, which she finds deeply inspiring.
The speech about ruined seasons in A Midsummer Night's Dream reflects concerns about climate change and highlights Shakespeare's ability to capture timeless concerns.
Deep dives
Judy Dench's Influence on My Own Shakespeare Experience
During my time in school, I had the opportunity to witness Judy Dench's talent as an actress. From watching her play Tanya in a school production to seeing her in Peter Hall's Stratlonne rendition, I felt as though I was following her footsteps. The speech I've chosen for My Own Shakespeare is a powerful moment where Taitanya and Oberon meet in the woods and confront each other, expressing how their quarrels have affected the seasons of the Earth.
The Timeless Relevance of Shakespeare and Climate Change
Shakespeare's plays, including the speech I've selected, often intertwine with themes that remain topical throughout the years. In this case, the speech about ruined seasons seems to echo concerns about climate change. It reflects our worries about the planet and the potential impact of human actions. Shakespeare's ability to capture these timeless concerns is clear as he describes the alteration of seasons and the confusion brought about by the changing climate, using vivid imagery that evokes the essence of winter.
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Personal Anecdote, Shakespeare's Speech, and Climate Change
Novelist Margaret Drabble chooses Titania’s speech from A Midsummer Night's Dream (Act 2 Sc 1) as the piece of Shakespeare which has inspired her most.Performed by Hattie Morahan. Broadcast on Radio 3.
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