The Shakespeare Library

Books & Literature

About

Attend, good listener, and lend thine ear to a noble feast of words: a podcast wherein the plays of Shakespeare are spoken whole and unabridged, scene by scene and act by act, that none of their majesty be lost. Here shall kings thunder, lovers sigh, fools jest, and spirits walk by moonlit hour, all in the fullness of their proper speech. Whether thou seekest tragedy, comedy, or histories rich with crown and quarrel, this stage of sound brings the Bard’s immortal works unto thy very chamber.

Episodes

  • King Henry VI Part 2 Act 2

    This episode of The Shakespeare Library covers Act 2 of King Henry VI Part 2, detailing Talbot's assault on the French, English political disputes symbolized by roses, and Mortimer's account of his family's fall.

  • King Henry VI Part 1 Act 1

    This episode explores the opening of Shakespeare's King Henry VI, Part 1, focusing on political turmoil in England following the king's death and the emergence of Joan of Arc in the French conflict. It examines themes of sovereignty, war,…

  • The Taming of the Shrew Act 5

    Act 5 of The Taming of the Shrew resolves with playful contests of wills and the tender discourse of love and obedience, affirming the bonds of marriage with consent and mirth.

  • The Taming of the Shrew Act 4

    Act 4 of The Taming of the Shrew focuses on the interactions between masters and servants, featuring comical mishaps and witty dialogues. The scene sets the stage for the 'taming game' with a husband's kindness and a bride's wit.

  • The Taming of the Shrew Act 3

    Act 3 of 'The Taming of the Shrew' interlaces discussions of music and arts with romantic rivalries for Bianca. It also depicts the tumultuous arrival of Katherine's husband and the chaotic preparations for a wedding.

  • The Taming of the Shrew Act 2

    Act 2 of The Taming of the Shrew presents Baptista's daughters competing for suitors. Petruchio arrives intending to marry Katherina, leading to discourse, proposals, and the promise of marriages.

  • The Taming of the Shrew Act 1

    Act 1 of The Taming of the Shrew introduces Lucentio's infatuation with Bianca and the obstacles presented by her sister. It also introduces Petruchio's arrival, seeking a wife and undeterred by the prospect of marrying a shrew.

  • The Taming of the Shrew Induction

    The episode discusses the Induction of 'The Taming of the Shrew,' detailing how a lord and his servants trick a drunken tinker, Christopher Sly, into believing he is a nobleman. The lord arranges for a play to entertain Sly, creating a sto…

  • The Two Gentlemen of Verona Act 5

    In the final act of The Two Gentlemen of Verona, the Duke forgives Valentine, allowing him to marry Silvia. The exiled men are also pardoned through Valentine's intercession, leading to a joyful departure.

  • The Two Gentlemen of Verona Act 4

    Act 4 of 'The Two Gentlemen of Verona' explores themes of love, loyalty, and reconciliation. The episode discusses intertwined emotions, broken vows, and the pursuit of affection and honour within the play.

  • The Two Gentlemen of Verona Act 3

    Act 3 of The Two Gentlemen of Verona explores a duke's scheme to win a lady's heart, Valentine's stoic acceptance of banishment, and Proteus's wavering loyalties, set against a backdrop of music and emotion.

  • The Two Gentlemen of Verona Act 2

    Act 2 of The Two Gentlemen of Verona explores the complexities of young love, as Valentine and Proteus navigate their affections and allegiances. The episode delves into the interplay of jest, sentiment, and schemes amidst noble discourse,…

  • The Two Gentlemen of Verona Act 1

    Act 1 of The Two Gentlemen of Verona features Proteus and Valentine discussing love. Proteus's servant Speed carries a message to Julia, who has feelings for Proteus. Proteus's father, Antonio, plans to send him to court.