Shakespeare 400 Canterbury: Chapter and Verse
The final lecture in a collaborative open lecture series, part of the University of Kent’s celebration of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death Dr Una McIlvenna (Lecturer in Early Modern Literature, University of Kent) ‘Songs and Music in Shakespeare and His Contemporaries’
Tuesday 22 November 2016, 17.00
Templeman Library Lecture Theatre
Hosted by Templeman Library
Drinks reception to follow
All welcome
Abstract
Early modern plays are filled with songs and singing, although this ubiquity of songs has been an aspect that until recently was either overlooked or seen as an obstacle to be overcome. This lecture will discuss how much we know about the songs and music in Shakespeare and his contemporaries, and what role these play in the dramas. Songs are a rich resource that can teach us a lot about daily life in the early modern period, and allow us fresh insight into many well-known plays.