Shows
Shakespeare Anyone?[Re-issue] Stuff You Should Know Part 3: William Shakespeare (Revised)Over this past year, we quietly went back to where we began this podcast and worked on revising our Intro Series, "Stuff You Should Know." We updated the original episodes quietly in September. When we started thinking about what we wanted to release for the end of 2024, we feel like nothing encapsulates how we've grown as podcasters and scholars over the past four years better than these revised episodes, so we wanted to revisit them and share these episodes again. -- This is Part 3 of our intro series "Stuff You Should Know," which covers some b...
2024-12-1819 minShakespeare Anyone?[Re-issue] Stuff You Should Know Part 1: The Monarchy & English Renaissance (Revised)Over this past year, we quietly went back to where we began this podcast and worked on revising our Intro Series, "Stuff You Should Know." We updated the original episodes quietly in September. When we started thinking about what we wanted to release for the end of 2024, we feel like nothing encapsulates how we've grown as podcasters and scholars over the past four years better than these revised episodes, so we wanted to revisit them and share these episodes again. -- This is Part I of our intro series, "Stuff You Should Know," which covers...
2024-12-1819 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers with Darren Freebury-JonesIn today's episode, we are joined by Shakespeare scholar, Darren Freebury-Jones, to discuss his soon-to-be-released book, Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers, which explores how Shakespeare was influenced by his fellow contemporary dramatists like John Lyly, Ben Johnson, and Christopher Marlowe, and how he also influenced their work. We'll discuss Darren's research process and the methods he used to analyze the works of Shakespeare and Shakespeare's contemporaries. We will also learn from Darren what this research reveals about the playwrighting and theatrical community of early modern London, and what readers and theatre-makers can learn from having a broader knowledge of...
2024-09-2548 minShakespeare Anyone?Much Ado About Nothing: Shakespeare and The Book of the CourtierIn today's episode, we are exploring how Shakespeare was influenced by The Book of the Courtier by Baldassare Castiglione as he was writing Much Ado About Nothing. We'll discuss how close reading of both Shakespeare's play and Castiglione's Renaissance etiquette book uncovers layers of intertextuality and references to The Courtier in Shakespeare's writing. First, we'll discuss some parallels between The Courtier and Much Ado About Nothing. Then we will dig deeper into Book 3 of The Courtier and how its messages on joking, jesting, and laughter can be read in Much Ado About Nothing. We will also briefly discu...
2024-09-1155 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's Language Framework: MalapropismsToday's episode is another part of our series on Shakespeare's Language Framework, or how Shakespeare's use of language can inform our understanding of his works. In today's episode, we are going to explore a device Shakespeare uses throughout his plays (but very notably in the comedies and histories): malapropisms. We will start by defining the term malapropism, then we will explore a linguistic study on malapropisms to determine how Shakespeare's malapropisms are linguistically constructed. We will also discuss whether or not early modern audiences would have understood these malapropisms as intentional wordplay, and how scholars know that th...
2024-08-2820 minShakespeare Anyone?Much Ado About Nothing: Shakespeare and the Comic Constable, or, Dogberry: Fact vs FictionIn today's episode, we are investigating Shakespeare's comic constable in Much Ado About Nothing, Dogberry, and why this character is portrayed as a clown. We'll look at a survey of historical records from Shakespeare's time to determine if early modern constables were truly as ineffective as Dogberry appears to be and if there is a contextual reason that Shakespeare's audience would want to see them depicted as foolish on stage. We will also discuss what the job of the early modern constable entailed, how it developed, and who the "real-life Dogberry" would have been in their communites. Fi...
2024-08-1445 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Theatres of Value with Dr. Danielle RosvallyIn today's episode, we are joined by friend-of-the-pod, Dr. Danielle Rosvally to discuss her new book, Theatres of Value: Buying and Selling Shakespeare in Nineteenth-Century New York City, and how Shakespeare had value for New Yorkers in the 1800s, and how Shakespeare came to be so prominent in American culture. About Danielle Rosvally: Danielle Rosvally is an assistant professor of theatre at the University at Buffalo. Her work examines Shakespeare as cultural capital, particularly iterations that intersect with performance and theatrical labor. Her book Theatres of Value: Buying and Selling Shakespeare in Nineteenth-Century New York Ci...
2024-07-3137 minShakespeare Anyone?Much Ado About Nothing: Gender Roles and Norms in Shakespeare's TimeIn our first deep dive episode into the world of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, we are examining early modern gender norms and how they influence the world of Messina and Leonato's household in Shakespeare's play. Join us as we discuss the spectrum of womanhood represented by Hero and Beatrice and examine the early modern anxieties that fuelled representations of cuckoldry on stage (and where did the idea of horns come from?). We'll also explore the early modern ideal of the silent wife and the trope of women at windows before talking about how modern theatremakers can c...
2024-07-1753 minShakespeare Anyone?Much Ado About Nothing: Stuff to Chew OnTo kick off our series on Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, we are (as always) starting with an overview of basic facts about the play and an introduction to the major themes and motifs of the play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support the podcast by becoming a patron at patreon.com/shakespeareanyone or by shopping our bookshelves at bo...
2024-07-0326 minShakespeare Anyone?Much Ado About Nothing: SynopsisIt's time for our next play, and we are so excited to dive into the world of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing. As always, we will start off with a detailed plot summary, breaking down the action of the play scene by scene. Let's dive in! Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support the podcast by becoming a patron at p...
2024-06-191h 27Shakespeare Anyone?Bonus: Interview with Ricky Dukes, Artistic Director of Lazarus Theatre CompanyIn today's episode, we are joined by Ricky Dukes, Artistic Director of the Lazarus Theatre Company, to discuss the work of the Lazarus Theatre Company, why classical plays, including Shakespeare, are still relevant for audiences today, and the upcoming (and timely) Lazarus Theatre Company production of Julius Caesar. About Ricky Dukes Ricky is a working-class, award-winning Director, Practitioner and Teacher based in the West Midlands and London. In 2007 he founded Lazarus Theatre Company and is the company's current Artistic Director for which he won Best Artistic Director in the 2012 Fringe Report Awards. His...
2024-06-051h 05Shakespeare Anyone?Romeo and Juliet: Wrap UpIt's hard to believe it is finally here, but we are wrapping up our Romeo and Juliet series this week by watching and discussing two productions. First, we will discuss Baz Luhrmann's 1996 film William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes in the title roles. Then, we will move into the National Theatre at Home production of Romeo and Juliet directed by Simon Godwin and starring Jessie Buckley and Josh O'Connor. Not enough Romeo and Juliet? Paid Patreon members can access our bonus episodes on Gnomeo & Juliet and the 2022 film Rosaline and suggest other...
2024-05-2258 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare for Autistic Individuals: The Flute Theatre with Kelly Hunter, MBEIn today's episode, we are joined in discussion with Kelly Hunter, MBE, to discuss her work producting Shakespeare for autistic audiences. We will discuss Kelly's professional journey that led her from working with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, and on the West End to founding The Flute Theatre and developing the Hunter Heartbeat Method in collaboration with autistic individuals. Kelly Hunter, MBE began working in theatre aged 17 playing The Mistress in Evita in the West End in 1980. Since then she has been creatively engaged in theatres, performing and adapting and directing Shakespeare. Kelly has also t...
2024-05-0849 minShakespeare Anyone?Romeo and Juliet: Feuds, Vendettas, and DuelsIn today's episode, we are exploring the historical context for the family feud and violence between the Capulets and Montagues in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. We'll briefly revisit the history of medieval bloodfeuds that we examined in our episodes on Macbeth, then we will dive into the pratices of vendettas and dueling in the Italian renaissance and how this form of violence was imported into England, Scotland, and Wales in the late 1500s and early 1600s. We will examine the rise in popularity of dueling among young men of the English nobility and gentry, how the pu...
2024-04-2442 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Ben Jonson, Shakespeare's Colleague and CompetitorIn today's episode, we are exploring the life and works of one of Shakespeare's contemporaries: Ben Jonson. Often called "Shakespeare's rival," Ben Jonson was an early modern actor turned playwright who came from humble beginnings to achieve success on the London stages. We'll dive into the parallels between Shakespeare and Jonson's lives, and we'll discuss how Jonson may be the person who we should thank for Shakespeare's First Folio. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on...
2024-04-1026 minShakespeare Anyone?Romeo & Juliet: Teenagerdom in Shakespeare's TimeIn today's episode, we will be discussing what is was like to be a teenager in Shakespeare's time, and how we can see early modern teenagerdom represented in Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet. We will build on our previous explorations of the early modern understanding of age and youth from our episodes on girlhood and manhood, then dive into the lived experiences of early modern teens and young adults. Finally, we will discuss the early modern public health crisis of suicide among children and adolescents. Content Warning: Suicide If you or someone you know is struggling or in...
2024-03-2749 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Staging Violence in Shakespeare with Dr. Danielle Rosvally and Sydney SchwindtIn today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Danielle Rosvally and Sydney Schwindt to discuss how fight choreographers approach staging moments of violence in theatre, specifically in Shakespeare's plays. We will discuss how they collaborate with directors and actors to safely depict violence on stage, the state of the fight direction community, and how anyone can learn more about safe, consent-based practices for staging violence onstage. Our guests: Danielle Rosvally, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of theatre at the University at Buffalo where she serves as resident violence coordinator. She is a fight director, ac...
2024-03-1336 minShakespeare Anyone?Romeo and Juliet: Courtship and Marriage in Shakespeare's TimeIn today's episode, we will be diving into the culture of courtship and marriage in early modern England. We will take a look at how the cultural norms and concerns surrounding marriage were shifting and changing in Shakespeare's time and how we can see this represented in Romeo and Juliet. We will also discuss how, at least in some parts of England and for certain classes, young people were able to resist some of the societal structures around courtship and marriage. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Musi...
2024-02-2843 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare and PetrarchIn today's episode, we will be continuing our series on Shakespeare's Language Framework and our Shakespeare's Sources by taking a closer look at Petrarch. First, we will dive into the biography of Francesco Petrarca, more commonly known as Petrarch in English, the 14th century poet who had a huge influence on European humanism, the Renaissance, and poetry. Then, we will explore Petrarch's influence and how it spread across Europe before covering how we can see his influence in the works of William Shakespeare. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and E...
2024-02-1419 minShakespeare Anyone?Romeo and Juliet: Patriarchy, Masculinity, and HonorIn today's episode, we're diving deep into the world of early modern masculinity, patriarchy, and honor as we dissect Shakespeare's iconic play, Romeo and Juliet. Our discussion begins with the examination of the expectations placed upon men during the early modern period and how those pressures are reflected in Shakespeare's play – the embodiment of honor, the nuances of patriarchy, and the various faces of masculinity depicted in Shakespeare's characters. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on...
2024-01-3151 minShakespeare Anyone?Romeo and Juliet: Stuff to Chew OnTo kick off our series on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, we are (as always) starting with an overview of basic facts about the play and an introduction to the major themes and motifs of the play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support the podcast by becoming a patron at patreon.com/shakespeareanyone or by shopping our bookshelves at bookshop.or...
2024-01-1728 minShakespeare Anyone?Romeo and Juliet: SynopsisIt's time for a new play, which means a new synopsis! We are diving into Romeo and Juliet today, and we will be breaking down this play scene by scene. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Special thanks to Nat Yonce for guest-editing this episode. Episode written by Elyse Sharp and Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support the podcast a...
2024-01-031h 28Shakespeare Anyone?Bonus: Revisiting A Midsummer Night's Dream and Titus AndronicusAs we wrap up 2023, we are taking a look back at the plays we covered this year by re-reading them and discussing how our readings of the plays has changed after doing our research for our episodes. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support the podcast at patreon.com/shakespeareanyone Works referenced: Shakespeare, William, and Harold...
2023-12-0620 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: "Decolonize the Mind" through ShakespeareEach year, in recognition of the National Day of Mourning/Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, we examine how British colonialism is irrevocably intertwined with Shakespeare. This year, we are taking a look at how Shakespeare's works have been used to critique the legacy of colonialism. We will look at how adaptations of Shakespeare's work from Martinique, Barbados, Cuba, and Kenya have utilized Shakespeare's stories and characters to represent and unpack the effects of colonialism. We also discuss a 2011 Palestinian production of A Midsummer Night's Dream that intentionally worked to create post-colonial version of Dream. ...
2023-11-2221 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: Wrap UpWe are finishing up our series on Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus by discussing two prominent adaptations and how they match up to what we've studied in our episodes. First, we will take a look at Julie Taymor's 1999 epic surrealist film adaptation, Titus, starring Antony Hopkins and Jessica Lange. Then, we compare it to the 2017 Royal Shakespeare Company production directed by Matthew Woodward. Join us as we explore these two very different productions of Shakespeare's bloody and brutal play! Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Ne...
2023-11-0849 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare's WifeThis year, 2023, is the 400th anniversary of the death of Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway. Have you ever stopped to ask how much you actually know about Anne? In today's episode, we will travel back through time to explore how Anne has been depicted in Shakespeare biographies and works of imaginative fiction since her death. We explore how her inclusion (or exclusion) from Shakespeare's narrative has changed and investigate what these depictions can tell us about society's perceptions of Shakespeare. Finally, we will also dive into the historical record and share the facts of Anne Hathaway's...
2023-10-2535 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: Cannibalism and the Dangers of Hospitality in Early Modern England with Carson BrakkeIn today's episode we are joined by Carson Brakke to discuss how early modern concepts and anxieties about hospitality and cannibalism influenced early modern literature and drama, most explicitly in Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus. Carson breaks down the early modern concept of hospitality and shares the cultural debates and dilemmas that centered around it and its inherent dangers. Join us as she guides us through the cognitive dissonance surrounding cannibalism for early modern Europeans, who simultaneously used it to other non-Europeans while possibly participating in cannibalism themselves! We also explore how readers and theatre-makers today can use...
2023-10-1151 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's Sources: Ovid's MetamorphosesJoin us on a literary journey through the transformative tales of Ovid's Metamorphoses and their profound impact on the works of William Shakespeare. Ovid's Metamorphoses, a collection of mythological stories of change and transformation, serves as a rich source of inspiration for many of Shakespeare's most iconic plays and characters. Before diving into the Shakespearean connections, Elyse and Kourtney provide an overview of key stories in Ovid's Metamorphoses, ensuring that both enthusiasts and newcomers can appreciate the context. Join us as we discover the clear parallels between Ovidian stories like Pyramus and Thisbe and Shakespeare's Ro...
2023-09-2724 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: Aaron and Race in Shakespeare with Dr. Mia EscottIn today's episode, we are joined by the brilliant Dr. Mia Escott to embark on a journey through the complex intersections of race, Shakespeare, and the early modern era. Dr. Escott provides crucial context to help us understand how people of the early modern era were socially categorized based on nationality, religion, and social status. It's a crucial foundation for dissecting Shakespeare's approach to race. Aaron, the enigmatic character from Titus Andronicus, takes center stage. Dr. Escott walks us through the complexities of this character, a Moor in a world where stereotypes and villainy are...
2023-09-1350 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespearean Vengeance: Exploring Revenge Tragedies in Early Modern EnglandIn today's episode, we're peeling back the layers of a genre that not only fascinated audiences of the Early Modern period but also left an enduring mark on the works of the Shakespeare himself: Revenge Tragedies. Join us as we journey through time to an era of dramatic tension, dark desires, and vengeful spirits. Revenge tragedies, a genre that flourished in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, paved the way for some of Shakespeare's most iconic plays. In this episode, Kourtney and Elyse will shed light on the defining features, influential playwrights, and societal factors that...
2023-08-3019 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: Femininity and Girlhood in Shakespeare's TimeIn today's episode, we will be discussing the portrayal of women in Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus and how it reflects the evolving concept of girlhood in Early Modern England as well as popular conceptions of one specific woman involved in early modern European politics: Catherine de Medici. Step into the past and uncover how linguistic developments in the early modern era point to an evolving understading of womanhood and how these developments appear in Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus. Discover the enigmatic Catherine de Medici's profound influence on Shakespeare's iconic tragedy. Unveil the parallels between her powerful legacy an...
2023-08-1659 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Romeo & Juliet Reimagined: THE HUNDRED LOVES OF JULIET by Evelyn SkyeIn today's episode, we are joined by New York Times bestselling author Evelyn Skye to discuss her debut adult novel THE HUNDRED LOVES OF JULIET and her process for adapting one of Shakespeare's most famous stories into her own. THE HUNDRED LOVES OF JULIET is available now, wherever you get your books! Join us on our Patreon later this month as we dive deeper into the book (with spoilers!) with Evelyn. THE HUNDRED LOVES OF JULIET is a modern reimagining of Romeo and Juliet, with a twist: Romeo has been cursed to live forever, Juliet to reincarnate and die...
2023-08-0227 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: Trauma in Shakespeare and Early Modern TheatreIn today's episode, we are starting off our discussions on Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus by discussing trauma and trauma theory and how trauma and trauma theory appear throughout the play. We will discuss the cultural effect of Lavinia's trauma and the ethics involved in reproducing that trauma onstage in both Shakespeare's time and today. Finally, we'll discuss how theatremakers and educators use trauma-informed practices to responsibly engage with early modern works that contain trauma. We reference The Pillars developed by Intimacy Directors International, which can be found here. Content Warning: Titus Andronicus contains d...
2023-07-1950 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: Stuff to Chew OnWhen we decided to name the episodes where we cover major themes, the main sources, and key background information for Shakespeare's plays, we definitely weren't thinking of the implications it would have for this play in particular. But now we are here, and discussing stuff to chew on for Titus Andronicus! Content warning: Titus Andronicus contains depictions and descriptions of acts of mutilation, graphic discussions of sexual assault and rape, overt racism, non-consensual cannibalism, and torture. Please listen with care. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sh...
2023-07-0527 minShakespeare Anyone?Titus Andronicus: SynopsisIt's time for a new play, which means a new synopsis! We are diving into Titus Andronicus today, and we will be breaking down this play scene by scene. Content Warning: Titus Andronicus contains depictions and descriptions of acts of mutilation, graphic discussions of sexual assault and rape, overt racism, non-consensual cannibalism, and torture. Please listen with care. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Special thanks to Nat Yonce for guest-editing this episode. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Inst...
2023-06-211h 26Shakespeare Anyone?Bonus: Yassified Shakespeare with Dr. Trevor Boffone and Dr. Danielle RosvallyIn today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Trevor Boffone and Dr. Danielle Rosvally to chat about Yassified Shakespeare, their recent Shakespeare Bulletin article, "'Everyone in illyria is bi you absolute cowards': Shakespeare TikTok, Twelfth Night , and the Search for a Queer Utopia," and the intersection between Shakespeare, social media, and queer youth cultural aesthetics. We also sing some showtunes! Trevor Boffone went viral in 2019 and hasn't looked back. His work using TikTok and Instagram with his students has been featured on Good Morning America, ABC News, Inside Edition, and Access Hollywood, among numerous national media platforms. His work...
2023-06-071h 00Shakespeare Anyone?A Midsummer Night's Dream: Wrap Up, or Elyse's LamentIt's our final episode of our series on A Midsummer Night's Dream! As always, we watch multiple productions of the play and share our thoughts. Join us as we discuss 1999's film version directed by Michael Hoffman which features a star-studded cast and incredible scenery alongside the National Theatre's 2019 production starring Gwendoline Christie as Titania which was notable for swapping Titania and Oberon's language for most of the play. You'll also learn why Elyse struggles to enjoy productions of this play and the pitfalls in which she believes most productions fall. Shakespeare Anyone? is...
2023-05-241h 07Shakespeare Anyone?Mini: Commerce and Trade in Shakespeare's TimeIn today's episode, we explore the fascinating history of trade and commerce in Britain, starting from prehistoric times and ending in Shakespeare's era. This episode topic was chosen by our by our Patreon patrons at the Gentry, Noble, and Royal Patron levels. Special thanks to Collective Action Comics Podcast, Claire Sharp, Elizabeth Sharman and Katie Smith! Discover how the monetization of England's economy fueled the growth of trade and commerce, and how merchant guilds helped shape trade regulation and the urban landscape of England's bustling port towns. From the wool trade to the spice trade, Elyse and...
2023-05-1023 minShakespeare Anyone?A Midsummer Night's Dream: Shakespeare & Climate Change with Sydney SchwindtIn today's episode, we take a closer look at how climate change affected early modern England--especially during the Little Ice Age, a period of global cooling that occurred from the 16th to the 19th century. We explore how this environmental phenomenon influenced the works of Shakespeare and his contemporaries, and what it can teach us about our current global climate crisis. To help us gain a deeper understanding of the issue, we are joined by Sydney Schwindt. Sydney Schwindt wears many hats in the theatre world; she is an actor, director, fight director, and educator. She is...
2023-04-261h 18Shakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's Changeling ChildrenIn today's episode, we'll be diving into the fascinating topic of changeling children in Shakespeare. Changeling children were believed to be babies that were swapped by fairies with their own offspring, leaving behind an imposter. This myth was prevalent in Shakespeare's time and appears in many of his plays. We'll explore the historical and cultural context behind the changeling myth, including its origins in folklore and its significance in Shakespeare's time. We'll discuss how the myth reflects the anxieties and beliefs of Shakespeare's society. Content warning: today's episode contains material related to ableism a...
2023-04-1219 minShakespeare Anyone?A Midsummer Night's Dream: Shakespeare's Political Satire in a Pastoral ComedyIn this episode, we explore Shakespeare's use of political satire within the pastoral comedy genre, focusing on A Midsummer Night's Dream. The pastoral genre, which originated in ancient Greek literature, involves stories set in a rustic, rural world that idealizes the simplicity and harmony of nature. During the Renaissance through Elizabethan and Stuart England, writers continued to use the pastoral setting to explore social and political issues of their time, and Shakespeare was no exception. We'll examine how Shakespeare drew on the political tensions and intrigues of the Elizabethan court to shape the plot and characters of...
2023-03-2957 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Writing Poetry Inspired by Shakespeare, an Interview with Elizabeth SylviaIn today's episode, we are joined by award-winning poet Elizabeth Sylvia to discuss her latest collection of poetry, None But Witches: Poems on Shakespeare's Women, the inspiration she took from Shakespeare's works, and the process behind this collection. Elizabeth Sylvia is the winner of the 5th annual Three Mile Harbor Poetry Prize. She lives in Mattapoisett, MA and teaches high school English in Bourne. Her poetry has been published in a wide range of literary journals, including Salamander, Pleiades, Slipstream and Crab Creek Review. None But Witches: Poems on Shakespeare's Women began as a project to read all of...
2023-03-1539 minShakespeare Anyone?A Midsummer Night's Dream: Classic Myth in ShakespeareAt the heart of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream is a fantastical world of fairies, magic, and mythical creatures, and in this episode, we explore the different influences that helped to shape this world. First up, we look at the rich tradition of English fairy folklore, which was still very much a part of the popular imagination during Shakespeare's time. We take a journey back in time to the early medieval period, when the Anglo-Saxon and Celtic cultures first began to develop their own unique traditions around fairies and other supernatural beings. As we progress through h...
2023-03-0153 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Plague, Quarantine, & ShakespeareIn today's episode, we will be exploring how the bubonic plague impacted society and culture in early modern England. We'll discuss governmental and individual responses as well has the effect quarantines had on the early modern theatre and the development of Shakespeare's plays. And we'll learn that, when compared to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic...well, not much has changed. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our w...
2023-02-1522 minShakespeare Anyone?A Midsummer Night's Dream: Sex and Sexuality...or, Shakespeare's Horny PlayContent Warning: This episode contains discussions of topics that may not be suitable for all audiences. Please listen with care. In this episode, we explore the depictions of sex and sexuality in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. While this play (and many of Shakespeare's comedies) end with a hetero-normative marriage or three, we'll explore the depictions of queer sex in Early Modern literature and Shakespeare before diving into Early Modern England's fascination with bestiality and zoophilia. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sou...
2023-02-0152 minShakespeare Anyone?A Midsummer Night's Dream: SynopsisHello 2023! It is time for us to embark on our next play: A Midsummer Night's Dream! As always, we begin our series with a synopsis of the play in case it has been a while since you've read the play or if it is completely new to you. So, let's dive into a summary of a play about fairies, lovers, and a donkey! Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or...
2023-01-041h 00Shakespeare Anyone?Bonus: Interview with Arthur W. Frank, author of King Lear: Shakespeare's Dark ConsolationsIn today's episode, we are joined by Professor Arthur W. Frank to discuss his new work, King Lear: Shakespeare's Dark Consolations, part of Oxford University Press's My Reading series. We discuss Frank's work outside of the realm of Shakespeare, what drew him to Shakespeare and King Lear, and how the play can offer insight into our own lives. As part of the My Reading series, King Lear is a personal meditation on a great literary work. Arthur Frank brings a career of studying illness experience and suffering to consider how King Lear can aid people whose lives nee...
2022-12-0752 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's World: Immigrants, Others, and Foreign CommoditiesIn recognition of the National Day of Mourning/Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, we are examining how British colonialism impacted the depiction of people of color in Shakespeare's work. We also suggest listening to our episode on Shakespeare and the Colonial Imagination (Website | Apple Podcasts | Spotify) and the All My Relations podcast's episode "ThanksTaking or ThanksGiving" (Website | Apple Podcasts | Spotify) Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Sm...
2022-11-2322 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: Wrap-upWe've reached the end of our Hamlet series! As always, to wrap up our study of a play, we are looking at a handful of noteworthy adaptations and critiquing them. With Hamlet, there were so many great ones to choose from (ahem, The Lion King), but to keep this episode from being as long as the play we stuck to the following: Grigori Kozinstev's 1964 Russian film adaptation Kenneth Branagh's 1996 Hamlet film adaptation Royal Shakespeare Company's 2016 production starring Paapa Essiedu Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was...
2022-11-091h 25Shakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's Soliloquies and AsidesIn our latest installment of our Shakespeare's Language Framework series, we are discussing the opposite of a discussion: soliloquies and asides! In this episode, we look at Marcus Nordland's work with the Shakespearean Inside Database and what trends we can find in the solo speeches of Shakespeare when we look at them across the Complete Works. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by...
2022-10-2620 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: Succession and GeopoliticsHave you ever wondered why Claudius becomes king over Hamlet? In today's episode, we are exploring the laws of succession that Shakespeare's audience would have understood and diving into how modern productions have highlighted the geopolitical themes within the play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can s...
2022-10-1254 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Traveling Theatre CompaniesIn today's mini-episode, we'll be talking about the touring theatre companies of Shakespeare's time. Did companies like the Players in Hamlet actually exist (and is Shakespeare's depiction of them accurate)? What do we know about them? Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.c...
2022-09-2821 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: Ghosts and the AfterlifeIn today's episode, we are expanding our research on Early Modern beliefs about ghosts. We'll looking be at how folk tales and ghost stories influenced the writing of Hamlet and the depiction of King Hamlet's ghost as much as (or possibly more than) Early Modern religious beliefs about the afterlife. We'll also discuss the details of how a ghost would appear onstage in Shakespeare's time and how early theatrical traditions influenced Shakespeare and his company. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith wa...
2022-09-1453 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespearean WoodcutsToday's episode is brought to you by our Patreon Patrons at the Gentry, Noble, and Royal Patron levels! They voted on today's topic: Shakespearean Woodcuts! Woodcuts were a popular Early Modern print-making method used to add illustrations to printed publications and were kind of like an Early Modern meme. Check out some of our favorites below: Hans Holbein's The Dance of Death series Works by Albrecht Durer The Beggar's Delight (a Broadside Ballad) The English Broadside Ballad Archive Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: Whe...
2022-08-3122 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: Ophelia, Gertrude, and Female AgencyIn today's episode, we are going to be discussing the female characters of Hamlet: Ophelia and Gertrude. We will be tackling some of the more difficult parts of the play for modern readers and theater-makers: the misogyny and seeming lack of female agency. In the first half, Korey will help us grapple with the seemingly inherent misogyny of the text (is the play misogynist just because the title character is? Or is there another possible reading?). Then, Elyse will lead us through what an Early Modern audience member would have understood about Ophelia's death and...
2022-08-1758 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Writing Fiction Based on Shakespeare with Carly StevensIn today's mini-episode, we are joined by independent author Carly Stevens to discuss her recently released novel, Laertes, and the process and inspiration behind writing a piece of modern narrative fiction based on Shakespeare's characters. Carly Stevens lives in Colorado Springs, where she has taught high school English (and Hamlet!) for over ten years. Writing Laertes is the fulfilment of a long-time dream. She also writes immersive YA fantasy novels set in the dark but beautiful world of the Tanyuin Academy. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: Wh...
2022-08-0328 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: Antic DispositionIn today's episode, we will be exploring the trope of antic disposition in William Shakespeare's Hamlet and asking the questions: does Hamlet actually go mad, or is he just pretending the whole time? What function did Hamlet's madness (pretend or otherwise) serve for Shakespeare's audience and what does it mean for audiences today? Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod fo...
2022-07-2049 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: Stuff to Chew OnIn today's episode, we are covering the major themes, tropes, and topics related to William Shakespeare's Hamlet. We'll also discuss the challenges involved in reading, performing, and editing Hamlet as well as how scholars have struggled to determine when exactly Hamlet was written. Content warning: because of this play's themes, we will be discussing mental health and suicide in this episode. Listen with care. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Musi...
2022-07-0632 minShakespeare Anyone?Hamlet: SynopsisIn today's episode, we are kicking off our series on William Shakespeare's Hamlet by giving you a synopsis of this looong play. In addition to covering the plot points you'll likely remember if you've seen or read this play before (like "to be or not to be," "alas poor Yorick!" etc.), we also make sure to cover the geopolitical subplots that can get cut or skipped. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Sm...
2022-06-221h 25Shakespeare Anyone?Bonus: RSC's Complete Works Second Edition with Sir Jonathan Bate and Eric RasmussenWe are so excited to be sharing this episode with you. This week, we are sitting down for a conversation with Sir Jonathan Bate and Eric Rasmussen about their recently released second edition of the Royal Shakespeare Company's Complete Works of William Shakespeare, now available at a fine bookseller near you. The newly revised, wonderfully authoritative First Folio of William Shakespeare's Complete Works, edited by acclaimed Shakespearean scholars and endorsed by the world-famous Royal Shakespeare Company. Combining innovative scholarship with brilliant commentary and textual analysis that emphasizes performance history and values, this landmark edition is i...
2022-06-0859 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: Wrap UpOur time with King Lear has come to an end! This week, we will be discussing two major film adaptations and whether or not we feel they are worth watching: Trevor Nunn's 2008 film adaptation of the Royal Shakespeare Company production, starring Ian McKellen, and Richard Eyre's 2018 film produced for Amazon Studios, starring Antony Hopkins. We'll also talk a little about a few other significant productions and adaptations. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith".
2022-05-2556 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Food and Cooking in Early Modern EnglandShakespeare features food all over his plays--he even names characters after food! Today, we are diving into the culinary landscape of Early Modern England and learning more about the foods (and foodies) of the time. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Elyse Sharp and Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website...
2022-05-1123 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: Aging and Old AgeIt is often said of King Lear that if an actor has the stamina to play the titular role, they don't have the age, but if they have the age, they don't have the stamina. With this in mind, we are taking a look at Early Modern perceptions and beliefs surrounding aging and old age, how aging and old age is represented in the text of King Lear, and how it has been portrayed on stage. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was rec...
2022-04-2753 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Not Shakespeare! Gallatea & Early Modern Trans Studies with Dr. Simone ChessIn this week's mini-episode, we are taking a slight departure from the plays of William Shakespeare to look at another play, Gallatea by John Lyly. We are joined in conversation by Dr. Simone Chess of Wayne State University to discuss the play's significance in Early Modern Queer and Trans Studies. This episode is an excerpt from our longer discussion. If you'd like to hear more, we will be sharing the full conversation with our Patreon patrons. Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/shakespeareanyone Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and El...
2022-04-1329 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: Shakespeare's Influence on Early PsychiatryThis is part two of our series on the intersection between Shakespeare's works and Mental Health and Disability. In this episode, we dive into how individuals at the forefront of the early field of psychiatry used Shakespeare's works, including King Lear, to develop treatments for their patients. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates...
2022-03-3050 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's SonnetsIn today's episode, we are continuing our series on Shakespeare's Language Framework by looking at his sonnets! In addition to his plays, Shakespeare also wrote 154 sonnets. What are they and can they tell us anything about the man behind the plays? Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for...
2022-03-1618 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: Mental Health and Disability in Shakespeare's TimeThis episode is part one of a two part series where we will be looking at the representations of mental health and disability in Shakespeare's King Lear. First, in this week's episode, we will be discussing mental health and disability in Shakespeare's time, specifically early modern treatment of what we would now describe as mental illness, neurodiversity, and disability. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds L...
2022-03-0248 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare's Folios and QuartosIn today's episode, we are exploring the first official publications of Shakespeare's plays: the quartos and the first Folio. What even is a quarto versus a folio? Let's find out! Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support...
2022-02-1623 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: Patriarchy, Patrilineage, and Sexist RepresentationsIn this week's episode, we are taking a look at how the patriarchal society and patrilineal anxieties of early modern English society influenced the sexist representations of gender in Shakespeare's King Lear, and how much further more recent productions have comes in terms of representation...or not. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or...
2022-02-0248 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: Stuff to Chew OnThere's so much to talk about with each play that doesn't fit into the synopsis or into its own episode, so we've decided to cover several topics in this episode. In this episode, we discuss major thematic elements in Shakespeare's King Lear as well as topics that are usually covered or talked about in reference to this play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us...
2022-01-1929 minShakespeare Anyone?King Lear: SynopsisLet's start diving into a play that is widely considered to be one of Shakespeare's best: King Lear. First up, as always, let's review the plot with a synopsis. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written by Elyse Sharp and Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support t...
2022-01-051h 02Shakespeare Anyone?Bonus: Revisiting Twelfth NightBefore we dive into our next play, we are taking the time to revisit both of the plays we covered this year. For this episode, we re-read Twelfth Night and will be discussing what we noticed in the reading and what was different for us after spending six months researching and studying the play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @sh...
2021-12-2221 minShakespeare Anyone?Bonus: Revisiting MacbethBefore we dive into our next play, we are taking the time to revisit both of the plays we covered this year. For this episode, we re-read Macbeth and will be discussing what we noticed in the reading and what was different for us after spending six months researching and studying the play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on...
2021-12-0825 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini: Shakespeare and the Colonial ImaginationIn recognition of the National Day of Mourning/Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, we are exploring how the "Age of Exploration" and Colonial Imagination in Early Modern England influenced Shakespeare's works--specifically The Tempest. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com
2021-11-2423 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: Wrap Up, or She's the ManTo wrap up our deep dive into Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, we are bringing things full circle by examining the 00's teen classic movie that introduced both of us (and many others) to the plot of Twelfth Night: She's the Man, starring Amanda Bynes and Channing Tatum. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com Fo...
2021-11-101h 07Shakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: Christopher MarloweIn today's mini-episode, we are talking all about Christopher Marlowe, one of Shakespeare's contemporaries. We'll talk about what is known about this mysterious playwright's life as well as the legends that surround him! Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com
2021-10-2722 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: Puritanism and MalvolioIn today's episode, we are exploring the character of Malvolio by diving into the history of the Puritan Movement in Early Modern England. Because Malvolio is described throughout the play as a Puritan, we will examine what a contemporary understanding of Puritanism would have added to the play (and especially that letter scene) for Shakespeare's audiences. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander.
2021-10-1356 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: Shakespeare's Globe TheatreIn today's episode, we are talking about what might be the most famous theatre in the English-speaking world: The Globe Theatre, and what we know about what it would be like to be an audience member seeing a Shakespeare play at The Globe. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for u...
2021-09-2922 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: Shakespeare's Comedic TropesWhere did Shakespeare get his jokes? In today's episode, we dive into the comedic tropes Shakespeare uses in the plot of Twelfth Night and where they came from. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com Works referenced: Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Commedia dell'arte". Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Nov. 2019, h...
2021-09-1549 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: Shakespeare & Cross-dressingIn today's episode, we'll be covering cross-dressing in early modern England. Shakespeare depicts cross-dressing in multiple plays, but what was the contemporary cultural context? We'll dive into early modern reactions to cross-dressing both onstage and off and how Shakespeare uses cross-dressing as a plot device across his plays. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us o...
2021-09-0122 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: Gender and Queer TheoryIn today's episode, we explore Shakespeare's Twelfth Night through the lens of Gender and Queer Theory. We take a look at how Early Modern concepts of gender and queerness may have influenced the writing of Twelfth Night and how modern productions use the play to explore themes related to gender and queer identity. In the second half of the episode, we are joined by our first ever guest of the pod, Dr. Sawyer Kemp to continue our discussion on Gender and Queer Theory. Dr. Sawyer Kemp (they/them) is a Chancellor's Postdoctoral Fellow in Transgender...
2021-08-181h 21Shakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: Shakespeare's Prose and VerseIn today's mini-episode, we are exploring Shakespeare's Language Framework. In this episode, we will discuss technical elements of how Shakespeare plays were written, as well as provide tips and tricks for navigating what can be a major hurdle to reading and performing Shakespeare: the text itself. How do you actually start to understand what is written on the page? We dive into the clues that can be found by looking at the syllables in each of Shakespeare's lines. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: Whe...
2021-08-0417 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: Plays for the CourtScholars know that Shakespeare's Twelfth Night was performed at court. But what does that mean? In today's episode, we're diving into what producing a play at court looked like for Shakespeare and his contemporaries as well as how performing at court influenced characters and themes of plays like Twelfth Night. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Inst...
2021-07-2148 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: Stuff to Chew OnIn this episode, we will go over the major themes of Twelfth Night and touch on topics we will cover in depth in future episodes as well as any fun facts. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com Works Referenced: "Introduction." Tw...
2021-07-0732 minShakespeare Anyone?Twelfth Night: SynopsisIt's time to dive into our second play! To cleanse our palates of the murder and mayhem of Macbeth, we are switching to one of Shakespeare's comedies: Twelfth Night! As with Macbeth, we are starting off with a summary of the action in the play--just in case it has been a while since you've read the play or if you are unfamiliar with it. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written by Ely...
2021-06-2351 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: Wrap UpWe can hardly believe it, but here it is: our final episode in our Macbeth series (for now)! Before moving on to our next play, we wanted to cover how Macbeth has been adapted for stage and screen and how the myth of the hero turned tyrant continues to shape our world narratives. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Additional sound effe...
2021-06-091h 22Shakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: Holinshed's ChroniclesEver wonder where Shakespeare got his inspiration or ideas for plays? In this episode, we explore the history behind one of Shakespeare's major sources for many of his plays: Holinshed's Chronicles. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written and researched by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Our theme music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Works Referenced: Clegg, Cyndia Susan. "Which Holinshed? Holinshed's 'Chronicles' at the Huntington L...
2021-05-2621 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: King James's PlayRemember when we said that we'd cover all of the different parts of Macbeth that were influenced by King James being on the throne or written *just* for him? In this episode, we finally get around to talking about all of that! Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Works referenced: Calhoun, Howell V. "JAMES I AND THE WITCH SCENES IN 'MACBETH.'" The Sh...
2021-05-1251 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: The Four HumoursToday we have a new mini-episode for you! In these mini-episodes, we'll be exploring topics that are related to Shakespeare but aren't necessarily connected to whatever play we've been discussing. And they're mini, because well, they're shorter than our other episodes. They're like quartos if the regular episodes are folio editions. In today's episode, we are exploring the Four Humours, which were a widely held theory in medicine during Shakespeare's time and which are referenced throughout his works! Shakespeare Anyone? is created, written, produced, and hosted by Kourtney Smith and Elyse...
2021-04-2820 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: Tyranny and TreasonIn this week's episode, we'll be discussing the elements of tyranny and treason as they appear in Shakespeare's play Macbeth as well as modern parallels to the plot and character of Macbeth and the implications of tyranny and treason in the Early Modern Era. Shakespeare Anyone? is created, written, produced, and hosted by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was "Korey Leigh Smith". Our theme music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Works referenced: Frye, Roland Mushat. "Hitler, Stalin, and Shakespeare's Ma...
2021-04-1451 minShakespeare Anyone?Mini-Episode: The Gunpowder PlotIntroducing the first of our Mini Episodes! In these mini-episodes, we'll be exploring topics that are related to Shakespeare but aren't necessarily connected to whatever play we've been discussing. And they're mini, because well, they're shorter than our other episodes. They're like quartos if the regular episodes are folio editions. In this episode, we dive into the Gunpowder Plot--an event which shook Early Modern England and shaped Shakespeare's Macbeth. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was...
2021-03-3121 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: Gender PoliticsIn this episode, we are examining the gender politics of Shakespeare's Macbeth: how gender is represented in the play and how it affects our understanding of characters. Shakespeare Anyone? is created, written, produced, and hosted by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com You can support the podcast by becoming a patron a...
2021-03-1751 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: King James I's Demonology, a Summary (Oof!)In this episode, we tackle reading King James I's Demonology so you don't have to! Because it. is. a. lot. But there's also plenty of source material in there that likely informed the depiction of witchcraft in Macbeth. Shakespeare Anyone? is created, written, produced, and hosted by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Our theme music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Works Referenced: King James VI and I. (2008). Daemonologie. Urbana, Illinois: Project Gutenberg. Accessed x Nov. 2020, from http://www.gutenberg.org/files/25929/25929-h/25929-h.html. Normand, Lawrence, and...
2021-03-0336 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: King James I's Obsession with Witchcraft in Early Modern Scotland and the North Berwick Witch TrialsEver read Macbeth and wonder, "Why witches?" Well, if you were trying to earn favor with your new Scottish King who was OBSESSED with witchcraft, maybe you'd write some witches into your very Scottish play. In this episode, we explore the concept of witchcraft in Early Modern Scotland, King James I's obsession with the topic, and the North Berwick Witch Trials to discover the cultural context that surrounded the creation of Shakespeare's Weird Sisters. Shakespeare Anyone? is created, written, produced, and hosted by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was reco...
2021-02-1754 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: Stuff to Chew OnThere's so much to talk about with each play that doesn't fit into the synopsis or into its own episode, so we've decided to cover several topics in this episode. In this episode, we discuss major thematic elements in Shakespeare's Macbeth as well as topics that are usually covered or talked about in reference to this play. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander....
2021-02-0329 minShakespeare Anyone?Macbeth: SynopsisBefore diving into our discussions surrounding Macbeth, we wanted to give a synopsis of the events of the play as they are written for anyone who hasn't read the play at all, in a while, or found it confusing to try and read on their own. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Episode written by Elyse Sharp. Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us o...
2021-01-2053 minShakespeare Anyone?Stuff You Should Know Part 3: William Shakespeare (Revised)This is Part 3 of our intro series "Stuff You Should Know," which covers some background and context into the life and times of Shakespeare, because art isn't created in a vacuum. In this episode, we'll be covering some basic information about Shakespeare. And when we say basic, we mean basic. And, even though Shakespeare is a famous figure, scholars and historians actually know quite little about William Shakespeare the man. We will discuss what scholars know about Shakespeare's early life in Stratford-upon-Avon and what a typical education for a young man of Shakespeare's background. We will also d...
2021-01-0619 minShakespeare Anyone?Stuff You Should Know Part 2: Elizabethan and Jacobean England & Theatre (Revised)This is Part 2 of our intro series "Stuff You Should Know," which covers some background and context into the life and times of Shakespeare, because art isn't created in a vacuum. In this episode, we'll be covering some basic information about early modern England during the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. And when we say basic, we mean basic. This is a quick overview of early modern England, more importantly the England that influenced Shakespeare. In this episode, we'll be covering some basic information about the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods, as well as the public theatres during those...
2021-01-0625 minShakespeare Anyone?Stuff You Should Know Part 1: The Monarchy & English Renaissance (Revised)This is Part I of our intro series, "Stuff You Should Know," which covers some background and context into the life and times of Shakespeare, because art isn't created in a vacuum. In this episode, we'll be covering some basic information about the monarchy and English Renaissance. And when we say basic, we mean basic. This is a quick overview of early modern England, more importantly the England that influenced Shakespeare. In this episode, we'll be covering some basic information about the English monarchy and English Renaissance. We will give an overview of the history of the...
2021-01-0619 minShakespeare Anyone?Shakespeare Anyone? TrailerIntroducing Shakespeare Anyone? A podcast by two Shakespeare nerds...minus the bardolatry. Coming in 2021. Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp. Note: When this episode was recorded, Kourtney Smith was using the stage name "Korey Leigh Smith". Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander. Follow us on Instagram at @shakespeareanyonepod for updates or visit our website at shakespeareanyone.com
2020-12-3001 min