Pronouncing Shakespeare: The Globe Experiment - Hardcover

Crystal, David

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521852137 ISBN 13: 9780521852135

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2005

Synopsis

How did Shakespeare's plays sound when they were originally performed? How can we know, and could the original pronunciation ever be recreated? For three days in June 2004 Shakespeare's Globe presented their production of Romeo and Juliet in original, Shakespearian pronunciation. In an unusual blend of autobiography, narrative, and academic content, reflecting the unique nature of the experience, this 2005 book by David Crystal recounts the first attempt in over 50 years to mount a full-length Shakespeare play in original pronunciation. Crystal begins by discussing the Globe theatre's approach to 'original practices', which has dealt with all aspects of Elizabethan stagecraft - except pronunciation. A large section is devoted to the nature of the Early Modern English sound system. There are reports of how the actors coped with the task of learning the pronunciation, how it affected their performances and how the audiences reacted.

About this title

Book Description

For three days in June 2004 Shakespeare's Globe presented their production of Romeo and Juliet in original, Shakespearian pronunciation, the first such attempt in over 50 years. In an unusual blend of autobiography, narrative, and academic content, this 2005 book by David Crystal recounts the research, preparation and impact of these historic performances.

About the Author

David Crystal is one of the world's foremost authorities on language. An internationally renowned writer, journal editor, lecturer and broadcaster, he received an OBE in 1995 for his services to the study and teaching of the English language.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 0521852137
• ISBN 13: 9780521852135
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 208