David Crystal

Father-son duo David and Ben Crystal discuss their new book 'Everyday Shakespeare: Lines for Life' featuring daily Shakespeare quotes. They skip typical contextual notes, share how to improve memory for Shakespeare's words, and explain the process of selecting relatable quotes for modern life. They also touch on adapting Shakespeare's language, memorizing lines, and share anecdotes of acting experiences at Shakespeare's Globe.

David Crystal, an honorary professor of linguistics and author of 'Bookish Words and Their Surprising Stories', dives into the rich history of English vocabulary shaped by literature. He discusses how terms related to books have influenced everyday language and shares anecdotes about idioms like 'bookworm' and 'stop the press'. The conversation also explores the evolution of language from traditional influencers to modern social media influences, showcasing how technology and culture continually reshape our linguistic landscape.

In this engaging discussion, voice coach Yvonne Morley-Chisholm and linguistics expert Professor David Crystal team up with forensic facial reconstructionist Professor Caroline Wilkinson and actor Thomas Dennis. They delve into their groundbreaking project that resurrects Richard III's voice from the echoes of the 15th century. The team explores techniques that combine AI, history, and linguistics. From reconstructing original pronunciation to creating a digital avatar, they bring the medieval monarch's voice and presence back to life, captivating listeners with their innovative methods.

Distinguished linguist David Crystal discusses the history of the English language, including Old English, Middle English, and Early Modern English. He also explores the influences of the Angles, Saxons, Jutes, and French. The podcast covers the evolution of English pronunciation, the impact of French on the language, and Shakespeare's original pronunciation. It also delves into accents in writing and the development of American and Australian English.

Ben and David Crystal discuss the influence of Shakespearean phrases in everyday conversation. They explore lesser-known lines, their meanings, original pronunciation, and social representations in Shakespeare's works.