Shakespearean Rhetoric

Benet Brandreth Q.C. is a barrister and an award-winning performer and expert on rhetoric and Shakespeare's use of language. For over twelve years he has taught the principles and practical application of rhetoric to actors, directors and students at the RSC, the Donmar Warehouse and RADA.

• 1. Introduction2. A Brief History of Classical Rhetoric3. Shakespeare’s Approach to Rhetoric4. What is Rhetoric?5. Invention: Ethos, Pathos and Logos6. Disposition 6. Invention and Disposition in the Rehearsal Room7. Style8. Rhetorical Techniques and Tropes: Indicators of Mental State9. Rhetorical Techniques and Tropes: Indicators of Theme and Structure10. Style in the Rehearsal Room11. Rhetoric in Hamlet, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, Twelfth Night, Othello and MacbethNotesIndex

Shakespearean Rhetoric will greatly aid anybody who needs a text illuminating in order to decipher character - not only in Shakespeare’s works, but in most classic, European texts that students will be asked to study or perform. Acting Shakespeare is made easier with the guidelines of rhetorical techniques discussed and concisely demonstrated in Benet Brandreth’s book. Unlocking a character through their chosen rhetorical techniques is explained in simple terms and shown to work in practice. A vital aid for all modern students of Shakespeare - with a concise grounding in English grammar thrown in for good measure.