Shakespeare in a Divided America

Description From the author of 1599, a fresh perspective on the history of the United States - and a timely reminder of Shakespeares indelible influence. A RADIO 4 BOOK OF THE WEEK Shakespeares position as Englands national poet is established and unquestionable. But as James Shapiro illuminates in this revelatory new history, Shakespeare has long held an essential place in American culture. Why, though, would a proudly independent republic embrace Englands greatest writer? Especially when his works enact so many of Americas darkest nightmares: interracial marriage, cross-dressing, same-sex love, tyranny, and assassination? Investigating a selection of defining moments in American history - drilling into issues of race, miscegenation, gender, patriotism and immigration; encountering Presidents, activists, writers and actors - Shapiro leads us to fascinating answers and uncovers rich and startling stories. But perhaps most pressingly, we learn how, in Trumps America, the staging of his work has provoked threats of violence and has become a battleground for freedom of speech. With the lightest touch and the most formidable scholarship, James Shapiro, once again, proves himself to be an irresistible storyteller. And what an exhilarating and disturbing tale he has to tell. Here is proof that Shakespeares power remains undiminished in our divided world. Simon Russell Beale