Shakespeare, Arabic Theatre and Arab Identity

Dr Sameh Hanna discusses the early translations and rewritings into Arabic of Shakespeare’s dramatic work .

Shakespeare has always been at the centre of a global cultural industry where his drama has often played a crucial role in negotiating theatrical forms, as well as different socio-political issues. What role did Shakespeare’s drama play in the development of Arabic theatre? How did the early Arab theatre makers translate, adapt and stage Shakespeare’s drama and for what effect? How was Shakespeare’s drama politicised in Arabic to promote and contest certain version of Arab national identity? This talk by Dr Sameh Hanna (University of Leeds) will look into the early translations/rewritings of Shakespeare’s dramatic work into Arabic, showing examples of their cultural as well as political implications.
Free event for adults.

Leeds Central Library (Sanderson Room, 3rd floor)

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