About this season
John Barton holds a master class in how to play Shakespeare, using members of the RSC doing scenes, sonnets, and commentary as prime examples.
Episodes (9)
1. The Two Traditions
Aired 29 July 1984 • 30 min
Contrasting Shakespeare's elevated language with modern naturalistic speech.
2. Using the Verse
Aired 5 August 1984 • 30 min
John Barton and company examine blank verse. Its strengths and particularities are discussed in great detail. Members of the cast try out various readings.
3. Language and Character
Aired 12 August 1984 • 30 min
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.
4. Speeches and Soliloquies
Aired 19 August 1984 • 30 min
John Barton and members of the RSC present a workshop on how Shakespeare used the soliloquy to directly connect the character with the audience.
5. Irony and Ambiguity
Aired 26 August 1984 • 30 min
John Barton and the RSC actors consider the subtle shadings produced by irony, ambiguity and sarcasm, and how best to express them.
6. Passion and Coolness
Aired 2 September 1984 • 30 min
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.
7. Rehearsing the Text
Aired 9 September 1984 • 30 min
John Barton and the actors analyze a scene from Twelfth Night, identifying pointers towards character and staging.
8. Exploring a Character
Aired 16 September 1984 • 30 min
9. Poetry and Hidden Poetry
Aired 23 September 1984 • 30 min
The bard's unparalleled poetry is celebrated and examined in its glory.