Paul Cantor July 28, 2014 (Episode 5)

Paul Cantor recalls his Shakespeare-obsessed youth in Brooklyn and how he came to see Shakespeare as a “political” thinker.

Contemporary directors often change the localities and eras of Shakespeare’s plays for “creative” purposes. Cantor explains why this is a mistake.

According to Cantor, Shakespeare was unique in world history in his ability to write both comedy and tragedy. How did he do it?

Kristol and Cantor discuss how Shakespeare used plays set in ancient Rome to explore themes such as republicanism, political greatness, and tyranny.

Why are Shakespeare’s plays set in different contexts and locales? In part, says Cantor, to show how political regimes shape human character.

How does Christianity impact politics? Shakespeare explores this theme in many plays, including Hamlet. Cantor and Kristol discuss.

In Macbeth, Othello, and The Merchant of Venice Shakespeare explores the relation of religion and politics. Cantor explains.