Read, discuss, and savor Shakespeare with John and Suzanne as they go into the topsy-turvy world of “As You Like It” – a romantic comedy full of wit and surprises.
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. John Miller and Suzanne Sanders assist, giving definitions and highlighting key details, but the main direction of the classes will be decided by your interests. We hope to cover an act a week. You can come for one play, some, or all.
“As You Like It” is the next play we’ll explore together. It’s a romantic comedy with shadows that make it all the sweeter. Lovely, witty Rosalind — in disguise as a teenage boy — escapes danger by running off to the forest where her father, the Duke, has been exiled by his usurping brother. She runs into the man she loves, but can’t take off her disguise. So she offers to pretend to be his lady love to cure his terrible pangs of desire. Got that? There are also 3 other scurrying couples, murderous brothers, wrestling matches, noble old men, saucy shepherdesses, a ravenous lion, and the most poetic grouch ever.
To keep everyone on the same page, we recommend you use the Folger Shakespeare Library’s version of “As You Like It,” edited by Barbara Mowatt and Paul Werstine, 2019.
Join us for this, the second course of our series, where we give the Bard’s masterpieces the time they deserve.
What to Expect:
By strolling through this play together, you and the rest of the class will help one another enjoy Shakespeare’s unparalleled insights into the human condition. Reading and discussing in depth at an easy pace, you’ll strengthen your understanding of the plot, themes, and characters. John and Suzanne will help you appreciate the word play and imagery. And we’ll laugh at the jokes together!
Feedback from John and Suzanne’s past courses:
“Fantastic class! Great teachers, interesting and interested classmates. Marvelous discussions.”
“More than excellent. John and Suzanne have definitely outdone themselves. Their mastery of the material and their recitations were great and what was even more fabulous was their translation/interpretation of the humor!!!”
“The instructors of this course are not only knowledgeable and passionate about their subject; they are giddily happy by it! Infectious!”
IN PERSON course at the Easton Family YMCA (no recording) | 5 sessions | Thursdays | February 29, March 7, 14, 21, 28 | 10 – 11:30 am | $50
