Read, discuss, and savor Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale. When a conspiracy theory blows everything up, can Love and Truth triumph?
The Savoring Shakespeare series explores Shakespeare’s works at a relaxed pace, the better to enjoy their heights and plumb their powerful depths. We read the plays together, discussing plot, themes, and our feelings as we go along. No expertise is necessary — beginners are welcome. Suzanne Sanders assists by giving definitions and highlighting key details, but the main direction of the classes will be decided by your interests.
This time we’ll share The Winter’s Tale.
It begins with a happy scene. Childhood chums, King Polixenes and King Leontes, have been having a great visit. But after 9 months, Polixenes figures he should go check on things at home. Leontes urges him to stay, then makes his wife, Hermione, beg him, too. When his old friend succumbs to her blandishments, Leontes has a sudden thought — why would he stay for her and not him? They must be having an affair! All at once, he is positive that the baby she’s expecting is not his own child. Anyone who argues the opposite must be in on the conspiracy! He rages against them. Polixenes runs home to avoid being killed, and Hermione is thrown in prison for treason. You would think being told by Apollo’s own oracle that she is innocent would be enough for the crackpot king, but no!
This story begins like a soap opera, but shifts to a far-off locale that’s diverting, comic, and lovely. As the two strands weave together, can the damage from Leontes’ wrongheaded obsession be transcended? Will the dark Winter’s Tale be resolved by the bright tale of Spring? You’ll have to see it to believe it!
To keep us on the same page, we recommend you use the Folger Shakespeare Library’s version of The Winter’s Tale, edited by Dr. Barbara Mowatt and Paul Werstine, Ph.D, 2005. The text is also available for free on the Folger website, https://folger.edu. Join us for this, the fifth course of our series, where we give the Bard’s masterpieces the time they deserve.
What to Expect: By strolling through this play together, we will help one another enjoy Shakespeare’s unparalleled insights into the human condition. Reading and discussing, we’ll strengthen our understanding of the plot, themes, and characters. We’ll take the time to appreciate his word play and imagery. And, as friends do, we’ll cry at the sad bits and laugh at the jokes, together!
Feedback from Suzanne past courses:
“Suzanne is always fun, and in this case she “persuaded” me to reconsider my reaction to Henry V’s great speech.
Once I was thrilled to it, but in these harrowing days, its call to “honor” seemed hollow. But she reeled me back in. Thanks!”
“Five stars! Suzzane’s Shakespeare presentation was truly excellent. The participants came to the class with a deep appreciation of Shakespeare, and we all left with an even deeper appreciation. This did not happen by accident: Suzanne’s preparation, knowledge, enthusiasm, and exceptional teaching skills created an outstanding 90-minute class. I’m already looking forward to her next Shakespeare class!”
“Suzanne Sanders has a very pleasant style of teaching. Shakespeare’s work is presented in such a way that everyone can enjoy it. Very down to earth! A gifted natural teacher. Congratulations!”
5 sessions | Tuesdays | April 15, 22, 29, May 6,13 | 1:30 – 3pm | IN PERSON (at the Easton Family YMCA at Peachblossom) | $60
