Intelligence Squared Sotheby's Talks | Shakespeare: A Man For All Time, with Tracy-Ann Oberman
Jun 12, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Emma Smith, a Professor of Shakespeare Studies at Oxford, and Tracy-Ann Oberman, an acclaimed actor known for her modern take on Shylock, delve into the complexities of Shakespeare's works. They explore how textual variations influence interpretations across generations. Oberman shares her unique perspective on Shylock, connecting it to contemporary issues of identity and societal rejection. The conversation also highlights the intricacies of Shakespeare's characters and the lasting impact of his wordplay, making his works timeless.
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Shakespeare's Texts Are Snapshots
- Shakespeare's plays were originally performed from manuscripts, not printed texts, which were a secondary stage in their life.
- Printed playtexts capture a snapshot of ongoing theatrical life rather than a fixed final version of the play.
First Folio Cemented Shakespeare's Legacy
- The 1623 First Folio established Shakespeare's status as a serious, important writer.
- Its large, weighty format signaled the plays' significance compared to ephemeral earlier publications.
1640 Sonnets Edition Reinterpreted
- The 1640 edition of Shakespeare's poems altered sonnets to seem more classical and less outdated.
- Changes to pronouns in sonnets reflect attempts to straighten out or reinterpret Shakespeare's original text.
