There Is No Escaping Shakespeare | The New York Times

Summary

This engaging exploration highlights the enduring influence of William Shakespeare on modern culture, illustrating how his phrases and themes permeate contemporary life. Despite being centuries removed from his time, Shakespeare's works are referenced in various media, from film adaptations to popular television series like 'House of Cards' and 'Sons of Anarchy.' The discussion underscores Shakespeare's literary legacy, depicting him as a significant cultural figure whose narratives continue to resonate and shape storytelling today, making his relevance timeless and universal.

Takeaways

• 😀 Shakespeare's influence persists in everyday language, with many phrases originating from his works.
• 🎭 His plays have inspired over 400 movies, more than any other author in history.
• 📜 Iconic lines from Shakespeare, like 'to be or not to be,' continue to be referenced in various forms of media.
• 📺 Modern television shows, such as 'House of Cards' and 'Sons of Anarchy,' draw heavily from Shakespearean themes and plots.
• ⚖️ The complexity of Shakespeare's characters and stories resonates with contemporary narratives, emphasizing ambition, power, and family dynamics.
• 📚 Shakespeare's works have been adapted countless times, proving their timeless relevance.
• 🗣️ The intersection of Shakespeare's literature with pop culture highlights his role as a foundational figure in storytelling.
• 🏛️ Even 400 years after his death, Shakespeare remains a vital part of cultural discourse and artistic expression.
• 🎬 The reference to Hamlet's 'Alas, poor Yorick' exemplifies how Shakespeare's themes are woven into modern storytelling.
• 💼 Shakespeare's presence in commerce illustrates the lasting appeal and demand for his work in various industries.

Q & A

What is the significance of Shakespeare in modern language?

Shakespeare has contributed numerous words and phrases to the English language that are still used today, making him a crucial part of our daily communication.

How many movies have been based on Shakespeare's plays?

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, there have been over 400 movies based on Shakespeare's plays, more than any other author in history.

What famous line is attributed to Shakespeare and what is its context?

The famous line 'To be, or not to be: that is the question' comes from Hamlet and discusses the theme of suicide, a topic not commonly addressed in children's programming.

Which popular television series are influenced by Shakespeare's works?

Shows like 'House of Cards,' 'Sons of Anarchy,' and 'Empire' draw significant inspiration from Shakespearean themes, such as ambition, family dynamics, and power struggles.

What is a notable comparison made between 'Sons of Anarchy' and a Shakespeare play?

'Sons of Anarchy' has been likened to 'Hamlet,' as it features a leader haunted by the death of his father and struggles with familial power dynamics.

How is Shakespeare's impact felt in commerce and advertising?

Shakespeare's phrases and themes are often used in advertising and marketing, demonstrating his lasting influence in commercial contexts.

What are some unexpected places where Shakespeare's influence can be found?

Shakespeare's influence can be seen in various unexpected contexts, such as popular television series, advertising, and even modern interpretations of his characters.

Why is the phrase 'wild goose chase' mentioned in relation to Shakespeare?

The phrase 'wild goose chase' is one of many expressions introduced by Shakespeare, illustrating how his language permeates everyday expressions.

What does the speaker mean by describing Shakespeare as a 'literary termite'?

The term 'literary termite' suggests that Shakespeare's works have infiltrated various forms of literature and media, much like termites in wood, indicating his pervasive influence.

What role does the speaker suggest Shakespeare plays in our daily lives?

The speaker suggests that Shakespeare remains a significant figure in our lives, influencing our language, storytelling, and cultural references without many people realizing it.