As You Like It: Women and Boys on Shakespeare's Stage

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In this episode, we look at the women and boys whose performances shaped the depiction of women on Shakespeare's stage. We start in Italy, discussing the real actresses of the commedia dell'arte companies who originated the "diva" archetype, and consider how their influence may have shaped the writing and performance of Shakespeare's characters like Rosalind in As You Like It. We then look at the early modern English stage, where women were barred from performing, and examine the impact of John Lyly's Galatea on the plays and playwrights of the era. Finally, we look at the documented reality of life in the Boys' Companies of Shakespeare's time, and what that history tells us about the young actors who brought these performances to life.

Content warning: this episode contains brief mentions of exploitation of children. Please listen with care. 

Shakespeare Anyone? is created and produced by Kourtney Smith and Elyse Sharp.

Music is "Neverending Minute" by Sounds Like Sander.

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