Retail Arts has a good point that reaffirms the elusive nature of Shakespeare when we try to nail him down. But what fun to make the attempt---and your reasoning holds a lot of water.
I won't say you're definitely wrong, but I think it's important to note that the use of "fair" in this book doesn't necessarily mean light skinned. It's rather used to describe one as beautiful. I also don't see Helena's line as proof they looked similar. They were called equally beautiful, but they couldn't have looked that similar if Demetrius would leave Helena for Hermia. I don't believe there's any solid proof either way, so it's up to interpretation (as none of the characters have any real descriptions)
Apr 4, 2022·edited Apr 4, 2022Liked by John McGee, PhD
The entire tone and tenor of the scene would absolutely be played differently, and I'd argue more interestingly, if the interpretation shifted in the way you describe.
This is fantastic! I’m teaching Midsummer now, may I share with my students? Full credit given of course! It’s a theater appreciation class at a Community College.
Your essay is a delightful read.
Retail Arts has a good point that reaffirms the elusive nature of Shakespeare when we try to nail him down. But what fun to make the attempt---and your reasoning holds a lot of water.
An interesting look into how things can be misinterpreted.
I won't say you're definitely wrong, but I think it's important to note that the use of "fair" in this book doesn't necessarily mean light skinned. It's rather used to describe one as beautiful. I also don't see Helena's line as proof they looked similar. They were called equally beautiful, but they couldn't have looked that similar if Demetrius would leave Helena for Hermia. I don't believe there's any solid proof either way, so it's up to interpretation (as none of the characters have any real descriptions)
The entire tone and tenor of the scene would absolutely be played differently, and I'd argue more interestingly, if the interpretation shifted in the way you describe.
This is fantastic! I’m teaching Midsummer now, may I share with my students? Full credit given of course! It’s a theater appreciation class at a Community College.