Watch Shakespeare in Italy

Shakespeare in Italy is a fascinating and informative documentary series that explores the connections between Italy and the work of William Shakespeare. Hosted by historian and architect Francesco da Mosto, the series features interviews with prominent scholars and performers, as well as insights from renowned actors Mark Rylance and Emma Thompson.

Over the course of four episodes, Shakespeare in Italy delves into the ways that Italy and Italian culture influenced Shakespeare's writing and the ways in which his plays have been received and adapted by Italian audiences over the centuries.

In episode one, da Mosto explores Shakespeare's early life and career, including his arrival in London in the late 16th century. The episode also examines how Italian literature and drama, including the works of Dante, Petrarch, and Machiavelli, influenced Shakespeare's early plays such as Romeo and Juliet and The Taming of the Shrew.

Episode two focuses on Shakespeare's later plays, particularly his Italian-inspired works such as The Merchant of Venice and Othello. Da Mosto visits Venice, Verona, and other Italian cities, tracing the cultural and historical connections between these places and Shakespeare's plays.

In episode three, the series turns its attention to the ways that Shakespeare's plays have been adapted and performed in Italian theater over the centuries. Da Mosto interviews contemporary Italian playwrights and directors, as well as performers who have appeared in Italian productions of Shakespeare's plays.

Finally, episode four brings the series full circle, exploring the ways in which Italy's influence on Shakespeare has been reciprocated in the centuries since his death. The episode includes a visit to the Globe Theatre in London, where da Mosto speaks with Rylance and Thompson about the ongoing legacy of Shakespeare's work.

Throughout the series, da Mosto serves as an engaging and knowledgeable guide, drawing on his deep understanding of Italian culture and history to shed light on the ways that Shakespeare's writing was influenced by his experiences in Italy. He also addresses the thorny issue of Shakespeare's use of Italian stereotypes and the ways in which his portrayal of Italy was shaped by the political and cultural context of his own time.

In addition to da Mosto, Rylance and Thompson provide valuable insights into the ways that Shakespeare's plays are performed and interpreted by modern audiences. Their interviews provide a fascinating glimpse into the ongoing relevance of Shakespeare's work and the ways in which it continues to inspire and challenge audiences around the world.

Overall, Shakespeare in Italy is a must-watch series for anyone interested in Shakespeare, Italian history and culture, or theater more broadly. With its blend of historical insight, cultural analysis, and behind-the-scenes access to contemporary performances, the series offers a rich and rewarding exploration of the enduring legacy of one of the greatest writers in the English language.

Shakespeare in Italy is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on May 3, 2012.