How Shakespeare Saved My Life

Austin Tichenor writes about why the behind-the-scenes workings of a Shakespeare theater festival make for such great television in Slings and Arrows and the connections with its sequel-in-spirit American Classic starring Kevin Kline.

The cautionary tale of this English Civil War-era pamphlet follows a respectable barrister’s descent into a life of crime and his ultimate redemption through repentance, a narrative shaped by the political imperatives of the time.

One of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, both in his lifetime and ours, Romeo and Juliet juxtaposes the joy of first love against a violent world divided by a blood feud. Explore some of the tragedy’s most well-known quotes.

19th century superstar Charlotte Cushman’s final performances included benefits for Union troops during the American Civil War. The fundraising organizers thanked her with commemorative albums now in the Folger collection.

150 years after her death Margaret of Anjou returned as a character in four early Shakespeare plays, Henry VI, Parts 1, 2, and 3 and Richard III. She’s found fans in every era since, including in community performances on the island of Roatán.

Why did early modern poetry and plays provoke the House Un-American Activities Committee? Marjorie Garber explores how Shakespeare became a magnet for suspicion during the Red Scare—and how he spoke to the moment.