Episode 29

Fools for Love. Week 27: Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Midsummer Night's Dream, and The Tempest

Back with more Shakespeare! Before we get started with Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and The Tempest, I share a little about my experience with Shakespeare before this project.

In short, it was almost ZERO.

I tell you this so you can have confidence as you start your own Shakespeare journey. I have been shocked, amazed and gratified at how rewarding the time put in with Shakespeare has been. And now, on to the plays!

This week’s Shakespeare trio is a true mix of tones.

Romeo & Juliet isn’t merely a teen love story—it’s an indictment of a society where everyone stays locked in their roles. No one is evil, yet parents, the Nurse, and Friar Lawrence all fail to act, and two young lives pay the price. Far more than “star-crossed lovers,” it’s a drama of systemic failure that rewards an adult reread.

After four tragedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream felt light and mischievous. Dame Judi Dench as Titania (in the 1960s BBC version) was delightful, though I found myself too drained for full comedy—still, it’s hilarious on stage.

Finally, The Tempest surprised me most: part adventure, part morality play. Prospero’s obsession with magic—and his choice to reclaim true leadership—offers a sharp reminder that power and technology can distract from real responsibility.

Three plays, three moods, and a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare’s range. And we aren't done! Join us next week to finish our Shakespeare trilogy with a couple of histories and the wonderful, tragic, Othello.

LINK

Ted Gioia/The Honest Broker’s 12-Month Immersive Humanities Course (paywalled!)

My Amazon Book List (NOT an affiliate link)

My Romeo and Juliet Movie Pick

My Midsummer Night's Dream Movie Pick

CONNECT

The complete list of Crack the Book Episodes: https://cheryldrury.substack.com/p/crack-the-book-start-here?r=u3t2r

To read more of my writing, visit my Substack - https://www.cheryldrury.substack.com.

Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cldrury/

LISTEN

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GpySInw1e8IqNQvXow7Lv?si=9ebd5508daa245bd

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crack-the-book/id1749793321