Is Shakespeare "as boring as bat shit "?
Sun, 9 Nov 2008, 10:00 pmstinger102 posts in thread
Is Shakespeare "as boring as bat shit "?
Sun, 9 Nov 2008, 10:00 pmWhen I was in high school and Shakespeare was compulsory, I used to love the stories (plenty of sex and violence) but hated the language. Why could he have not said the same thing in plain and simple words? And why should we Aussies have to learn about old Pommie poets anyway?
When I was at uni in the 70s, I had a small part in the scottish play. I had one long speech to remember. It was most daunting, until it was pointed out to me that it was written in iambic pentameter, so that once the actor got into the rhythm, the actual words just seemed to flow.
As I matured, I began to appreciate the whole canon more and more. I realised that Shakespeare had contibuted more to the development of the English language than any other single person (with the possible exception of Chaucer). Moreover, it was not only great literature, but if you could tap into the language, it was great theatre as well.
Nowadays, it stikes me that any theatre actor worth his or her salt has done, and yearns to do more Shakespeare, as an important aspect of their artistic development. Not only that, but the plays never seem to lose their audience appeal.
Finally, I regard myself as a devotee of Australian dramatic works and historical narratives. I value our national heritage to the point of jingoism. Having said that, I regard Shakespeare as just as much a part of our heritage as Britain's.
I therefore categorically disagree with the above proposition.
Selflishly Sylish
Mon, 17 Nov 2008, 12:37 pmWalter Plinge
My dear Mr Cowpat, or may I call you Walter?
Love your style and the gentle humour within.
Firstly, may I state that the title "Minister for Good Times," was given to me 14 or 15 years ago, by a much loved mentor, who sadly has passed on to the great yacht and car club wine bars in the heavens - one Noel Semmens - and I have proudly worn the tag ever since. From memory, it was after a particulary taxing boat trip during an Australia Cup yacht racing series, when I was instructing guests on how not to spill chardonnay from their glasses, while swimming in Cockburn Sound.
As to changing my mind about the Bard, Cate Blanchett is calling me and that is a Siren call! - now there was a movie! But as usual, I digress. I'm always willing to learn and admit to being wrong - maybe I just haven't heard or seen the old boy done well? Others were right when they mentioned complete boredom with it all at school. I'd certainly give a role in one of his works a go, (in terms of auditioning, directors may well think otherwise). Perhap with my aquiline, (OK, hooked), nose, beard and eye for a deal, I could audition for Shylock, then of course, some may say the role of a fool would come naturally, either way, I would expect no mercy while straining for quality.
All Good Things
Greg
The Minister for Good Times
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