Shakespeare is everywhere in contemporary media culture.
This book explores the reasons for this dissemination and reassemblage. Ranging widely over American TV drama, it discusses the use of citations in
Westworld and
The Wire, demonstrating how they tap into but also transform Shakespeare's preferred themes and concerns. It then examines the presentation of female presidents in shows such as
Commander in Chief and
House of Cards, revealing how they are modelled on figures of female sovereignty from his plays. Finally, it analyses the specifically Shakespearean dramaturgy of
Deadwood and
The Americans. Ultimately, the book brings into focus the way serial TV drama appropriates Shakespeare in order to give voice to the unfinished business of the American cultural imaginary.
About the AuthorElisabeth Bronfen is Professor of English and American Studies at the University of Zurich and Global Distinguished Professor at New York University
Reviews'This is a very intelligent and well-written book.'
Modern Language Review
'...it will delight readers who find pleasure in the rich and diverse world of serial drama available on quality television in the twenty-first century.'
Cahiers Elisabethains
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Book InformationISBN 9781526142313
Author Elisabeth BronfenFormat Hardback
Page Count 256
Imprint Manchester University PressPublisher Manchester University Press
Weight(grams) 540g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 156mm * 16mm