“Shakespeare told by Paul Sterling”, published by AEDE Books, presents itself as an extraordinary open window on the universe of the great English playwright, William Shakespeare. The author, Paul Sterling, a member of the British Shakespeare Association, manages to accomplish an admirable feat: making the Bard’s theatrical legacy accessible and vibrant to contemporary audiences.
William Shakespeare, who went down in history as “the Bard,” is one of the most celebrated playwrights and poets of all time. His exact date of birth is not documented, but it is believed that he was born on April 23, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. This hypothesis is based on the date of his baptism, recorded on April 26, 1564, as it was customary to baptize newborns a few days after birth.
The choice of April 23 as a symbolic date is further strengthened by the coincidence with the date of his death, which took place on April 23, 1616, exactly 52 years later.
This double association reinforces his mythical image in the history of English literature and culture, contributing to the fascination surrounding the figure of Shakespeare and his artistic legacy.
Sterling adopts a fresh and direct narrative style, which smooths out the complexities of Elizabethan language without sacrificing the depth of the stories and characters. With a contagious passion, he invites the reader to rediscover the dramas of Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Macbeth and other immortal works, showing their perennial relevance. Through captivating prose, Sterling highlights timeless themes such as love, power, jealousy, and inner struggle, making them resonate in the hearts of readers of all ages.
This book is not only a guide to Shakespeare’s masterpieces, but an exciting gateway to a theater that mirrors life and its complexities. An ideal work for those approaching Shakespeare for the first time, as well as for those who want to rediscover him in a new and engaging light.
Theatre, with its unique ability to represent the complexity of the human experience, often suffers from stereotypes that portray it as elitist and inaccessible.
However, in reality, it is an inclusive space, where emotions, stories and ideas intertwine to speak to everyone, without distinction. It is a mirror of life, in which the public can recognize themselves, question themselves and find new perspectives.
More than just entertainment, the theater offers a place of reflection, where universal themes are addressed and the depths of the human condition are explored. But it is also an engine of intellectual freedom, a stimulus for critical thinking and comparison, making it an essential tool for a more aware and connected society.
In this sense, theatre does not belong to the few: it belongs to anyone who is willing to open up to dialogue and empathy. It is an invitation, without barriers, to live and understand the complexity of the world.
A fascinating and accessible book that reinterprets Shakespeare’s works, making them accessible to everyone, thanks to Paul Sterling’s compelling narrative style and creative ideas. Here are the highlights of the project:
Sterling manages to involve readers of all ages, immediately conveying universal themes such as love, courage, fear and desire.
The stories weave together historical and narrative elements with a touch of fantasy, bringing Shakespeare’s era to life.
A mysterious narrative that unfolds through the discovery of ancient manuscripts in a workshop in Lucca. These contain the stories of a minstrel who reinterpreted Shakespeare for ladies and knights.
Elegant poetic introductions that add depth and recall the charm of the past.
The works are enriched with images from the Victorian Illustrated Shakespeare Archive, offering a refined visual framework.
Theatre becomes a mirror of life and a means of breaking down the barriers between audiences and classical literature.
José Carreras: He calls it an exciting journey that enhances the beauty and authentic emotions of Shakespeare.
Gabriele Salvatores: It emphasizes the universal value of the Bard’s work, inspiration for every form of art.
The goal:
To make Shakespeare accessible, exciting and relevant, transforming classic literature into a living and engaging experience for everyone. An invitation to discover, or rediscover, the eternal charm of theater and storytelling.
If you are a fan of theater, literature and timeless stories, “Shakespeare – Romeo and Juliet – Hamlet – Macbeth – Told by Paul Sterling” could really become the jewel of your library. This book offers a unique and engaging interpretation of Shakespeare’s most iconic works, revisiting them with an accessible language and a narrative that knows how to excite even those unfamiliar with the classics.
Why read it?
A new approach to the classics: Paul Sterling tells these plays in a fresh style, making Shakespeare’s emotions and conflicts more relevant than ever.
Suitable for everyone: Perfect for those approaching Shakespearean texts for the first time, but also for those who want to rediscover these masterpieces from a different perspective.
Universal emotions: Love, ambition, betrayal, revenge the themes that run through Shakespeare’s works still touch us deeply today.
Paolo Menconi is known for his refined and engaging style, capable of enriching classical texts with prologues and rhymes that not only introduce but elevate the context of the works. When it comes to the works of William Shakespeare, such a feat takes on particular importance, since Shakespeare himself is a master of lyricism and drama.
If Menconi edited the introduction of the Shakespearean works narrated by Paul Sterling, we can imagine that he was able to grasp the essence of the themes and characters to give the reader a vivid, poetic and profound introduction. The choice of rhymes and prologues to tell Shakespeare is not only a tribute, but a bridge between eras, a way to make the complexity and beauty of the English Bard accessible to a modern audience.
Whether it’s for a theater enthusiast, a literature lover, or those simply looking for a meaningful read, this book is a gift that combines culture and entertainment.
Don’t miss it: it’s a celebration of the power of the word and the eternity of human emotions.