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Best Episodes of Playing Shakespeare
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Worst Episodes of Playing Shakespeare
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Playing Shakespeare Episode Guide
The Two Traditions
S1 Ep1
29th Jul 1984
Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.
Using the Verse
S1 Ep2
5th Aug 1984
John Barton and company examine blank verse. Its strengths and particularities are discussed in great detail. Members of the cast try out various readings.
Language and Character
S1 Ep3
12th Aug 1984
John Barton and the cast discuss how Shakespeare defines his character by the language they speak, and how the characters attempt to achieve their aims by means of what they say and how they say it.
Speeches and Soliloquies
S1 Ep4
19th Aug 1984
John Barton and members of the RSC present a workshop on how Shakespeare used the soliloquy to directly connect the character with the audience.
Irony and Ambiguity
S1 Ep5
26th Aug 1984
John Barton and the RSC actors consider the subtle shadings produced by irony, ambiguity and sarcasm, and how best to express them.
Passion and Coolness
S1 Ep6
2nd Sep 1984
Hamlet's advice to the players is the best-known acting instruction in theatrical history. John Barton and the RSC actors explore this essential mandate to be both natural and intellectual.
Rehearsing the Text
S1 Ep7
9th Sep 1984
John Barton and the actors analyze a scene from Twelfth Night, identifying pointers towards character and staging.
Poetry and Hidden Poetry
S1 Ep9
23rd Sep 1984
The bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.
The first episode of Playing Shakespeare aired on July 29, 1984.
The last episode of Playing Shakespeare aired on September 23, 1984.
