How Roman political theory shaped the plays of William Shakespeare
In short: While Shakespeare is famous for his English history plays, he was also deeply influenced by Roman models. This lecture explores his fascination with Cicero's civic duties and Horace's vision for the writer's public role.
Professor Jonathan Bate examines how Shakespeare looked beyond the English monarchy to Roman political thought. The lecture explores how the theory of civic duties, notably expressed by Cicero, influenced the playwright, with Cicero himself appearing as a character in Julius Caesar. Additionally, Bate discusses how Shakespeare drew from the poet Horace to define the public role and responsibility of the writer.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Shakespeare's Politics - Sir Jonathan Bate FBA
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