BOOK BRIEF

Shakespeare in a Divided America: What His Plays Tell Us about Our Past and Future

James Shapiro
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Shakespeare in a Divided America: What His Plays Tell Us about Our Past and Future

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020

Book Brief

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James Shapiro

Shakespeare in a Divided America: What His Plays Tell Us about Our Past and Future

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

286

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • Various Eras

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Shakespeare in a Divided America: What His Plays Tell Us about Our Past and Future, James Shapiro examines the impact of Shakespeare’s works on American history, revealing cultural divides and societal issues. By discussing different interpretations of Shakespearean plays, individuals can gain insights into America's evolving identity and ongoing debates about race, politics, and national unity.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.3

3,775 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

James Shapiro's Shakespeare in a Divided America insightfully examines the Bard’s plays as mirrors of American societal issues, highlighting their continued relevance. Critics praise Shapiro's engaging narrative and depth of research. Some, however, find it occasionally leans heavily on contemporary parallels, risking historical context. Overall, a thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Shakespeare in a Divided America: What His Plays Tell Us about Our Past and Future?

Readers fascinated by how literature reflects societal issues will enjoy Shakespeare in a Divided America. Fans of Howard Zinn's A People’s History of the United States or Ta-Nehisi Coates’s Between the World and Me may appreciate Shapiro's exploration of cultural tensions.

4.3

3,775 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

286

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • Various Eras

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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