Emma Smith

Join Professors Michelle O'Callaghan, Lucy Munro, and Emma Smith as they dive into the fascinating world of Thomas Middleton, a Jacobean playwright whose works blended comedy, tragedy, and societal critique. They explore Middleton's unique portrayal of gender, the interplay of sex and money, and his collaboration with Shakespeare. The discussion highlights Middleton's standout plays, his provocative political commentary, and the enduring relevance of his themes in today's context, revealing his lasting impact on theater.

Emma Smith, a Shakespeare expert from Oxford, Kiernan Ryan, an esteemed English Literature scholar, and David Schalkwyk, director of Global Shakespeare at Queen Mary, dissect the dark depths of 'Macbeth.' They explore the intricate interplay of ambition and guilt, shaped by the witches' prophecies and regicide. The discussion delves into the Jacobean context, highlighting the impact of King James and the societal values reflected in the play. Themes of masculinity, moral corruption, and dramatic language reveal the timeless relevance of this chilling tragedy.

Pascale Aebischer, Michael Dobson, and Emma Smith dive into the complexities of Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night,' exploring themes of love, identity, and desire. They discuss the intriguing relationships between characters, like the disguises that lead to misunderstandings. The dark humor surrounding Malvolio's humiliation is intricately examined, alongside the festive backdrop of Illyria. The guests also connect the play's themes to early 17th-century London, highlighting how societal norms like Puritanism shape its comedic elements.

Hannah Crawforth, a Senior Lecturer in Early Modern Literature, joins poet Don Paterson and professor Emma Smith to dive into the world of Shakespeare's sonnets. They explore the enigmatic historical backdrop of these poems, published in 1609 but overlooked in favor of his plays. The guests discuss the rich themes of love, beauty, and identity, as well as the complexities within relationships portrayed in the sonnets. With insights on wordplay and the paradox of love in Sonnet 116, the conversation reveals the layered meanings that have captivated audiences through the ages.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Emma Smith, an authority on early modern drama from Oxford, joins in to dissect Marlowe's iconic 'Dr. Faustus.' They delve into the play's dark themes of ambition and the pursuit of knowledge, considering its moral implications. The conversation unveils how Faustus humanizes the devil, the impact of audience reactions on Renaissance theatre, and the timeless echoes of the Faustian pact in modern culture. They even explore the theatrical innovations that brought the supernatural to life for Elizabethan audiences.