Year 12 visit the Globe

Freemen’s English Literature A-Level students were extremely fortunate to receive a guided tour of the iconic Globe Theatre on Friday 9th of May. The theatre, located on the Bank of the River Thames, was originally constructed in 1594 by the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a prominent member of this company being William Shakespeare. It was known for its architectural design as an open-air amphitheatre, with its thatched roof, thrust stage and three tiers of seating, originally holding 3000 people. During the tour, we learned that the pillars positioned on stage were painted to mimic Italian marble, and the murals painted on the ‘Heavens’ (the ceiling above the stage) portrayed astrological signs. Furthermore, we were informed that The Globe burned down in 1613, due to a misfired theatrical cannon, and was rebuilt the following year. However, in 1644, the Puritans demolished the theatre. In 1997, Sam Wanamaker, an American-born actor and director, led its reconstruction.

We then took part in a ‘Hamlet’ workshop watching clips of various theatrical interpretations performed at the Theatre. We had insightful discussions about dramatic conventions, comparing these performances to previous adaptations. We then acted out scenes from ‘Hamlet’, allowing us to bring his words to life and understand the dramatic effects created by Shakespeare’s directorial hints and language. His audiences went to ‘hear’ a play rather than ‘see’ one.

My most memorable personal moment was the privilege of viewing Shakespeare’s First Folio in the Guildhall Library, the first collection of his plays ever published, of which only 235 copies have survived. Seeing his first folio in person made me value his immense influence on the English language, theatre and literature, and how fortunate I am to appreciate his writing. This built the foundations of my passion for English Literature from a young age, along with my enjoyment of his plays and sonnets.

Overall, I was able to delve more deeply into ‘Hamlet’, as well as explore Shakespeare’s work in the original performance space meant for his plays. Viewing the first folio was a fantastic honour that I will treasure.