Exploring Shakespeare – Anthony and Cleopatra

Study Session led by Clare Smout (3 hours)

Roman Antony & Egyptian Cleopatra were the world’s most famous star-crossed lovers until Romeo & Juliet came along. Despite ruling large areas of the Roman empire, they cannot govern their own passions and finally see suicide as their only option.

Dryden re-titled this play ‘All for Love – or the World Well Lost?’ Do you agree?

These friendly interactive sessions include an introductory talk, group discussion (on characters, themes, language and staging), and video clips showing a variety of interpretations. There is a break midway for coffee and cake.

This season explores a selection of Shakespeare’s English and Roman history plays. The full programme is below. Join us for as many (or few) events as you wish. 

2pm-5pm 

Saturday 24 October – Richard III 

Saturday 28 November – Richard II 

Saturday 16 January – Antony & Cleopatra 

10am-5pm 

Saturday 13 February – Coriolanus 

Saturday 13 March – Cymbeline 

Clare Smout is a locally-based Shakespeare specialist. She spent the first half of her career in professional theatre, the second in academic research and teaching. Clare has taught Shakespeare to students of all ages, including at the University of Birmingham and the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Continuing Education. 

These events are suitable for those aged 18 and over. 

For further information contact.shakespeare.courses@smout.org.