Collaborations with the Past

This work explores how key writers, actors, and filmmakers have engaged with Shakespeare over the past two centuries, revealing the complexities and responsibilities of reinterpreting his influence in modern culture.

Collaborations with the Past delves into the enduring influence of Shakespeare on contemporary artists across various mediums over the last two centuries. The author, Diana E. Henderson, explores how writers, actors, theater directors, and filmmakers selectively engage with Shakespeare's works, creating new narratives that resonate with modern audiences. This process of reinterpreting Shakespeare not only highlights the playwright's relevance but also sheds light on the complexities and responsibilities that come with cultural re-creation.

Henderson's analysis spans a wide array of texts and performances, from Sir Walter Scott's Kenilworth to Kenneth Branagh's cinematic interpretation of Henry V. By examining these rich yet challenging examples, she reveals the intricate relationship between Shakespeare's legacy and the artistic endeavors of modern creators. The book emphasizes that each collaboration is shaped by various forces—political, economic, psychological, and technical—that influence how imagination transforms into memory.

Through detailed examinations of novels like Jane Eyre and Mrs. Dalloway, as well as diverse adaptations in film and theater, Henderson illustrates that art, regardless of its medium, is inextricably linked to the past. Understanding this collaborative process is essential for grasping the nuances of Shakespeare's work and its impact on Anglo-American culture. Ultimately, Collaborations with the Past invites readers to appreciate the ongoing dialogue between historical texts and contemporary artistic expression.