Why Shakespeare Matters Today: Rethinking Hamlet, Othello, and King Lear

Why are William Shakespeare’s plays still considered essential reading, some four hundred years after they appeared? How can lessons from his Elizabethan theatrical universe help us to better understand social and political conflicts we confront today?

Referencing three of the playwright’s greatest tragedies—Hamlet, Othello, and King Lear—Joseph Luzzi, professor of comparative literature at Bard College, explores the elements that keep Shakespeare so vital and relevant a force in popular culture. Luzzi sets these works within the modern context as he focuses on Shakespeare’s prodigious contributions to the English language, unparalleled—some say, uncanny—grasp of human psychology, and use of literary form that hasn’t lost the power to astonish and captivate audiences.

Patron Information

• If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
• Unless otherwise noted, registration for streaming programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
• Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
• Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
• View Common FAQs about our Streaming Programs on Zoom.