Intelligence Squared The Sunday Debate: Shakespeare vs Milton
Dec 26, 2021
Join Shakespeare scholar James Shapiro and Milton expert Nigel Smith as they passionately debate the merits of their literary icons. Harriet Walter, Pippa Nixon, and Samuel West bring the dialogue to life with engaging performances from both authors. They explore themes of ambition, power, and the emotional complexity of characters, particularly in relation to Shakespeare’s nuanced narratives versus Milton’s profound philosophical inquiries. The debate ignites conversations on love, betrayal, and the rich legacies of these monumental figures in literature.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Shapiro's Shakespearean Journey
- James Shapiro came to Shakespeare through Milton, initially preferring Milton's traditional values.
- Shakespeare became a 'drug' after seeing plays in London, leading to a lifelong immersion.
Smith's Miltonic Discovery
- Nigel Smith initially struggled with Milton, finding Shakespeare more accessible during school.
- Studying 17th-century history and Milton in university revealed Milton's ambition and rebellious nature.
Shakespeare: Poet of Relationships
- Shakespeare excels in portraying complex relationships, blending heartbreak and humor.
- The scene from Much Ado About Nothing demonstrates this by combining a love confession with a request for murder.
