Themes and Consequences in 'The Winter's Tale'

Michael Witmore, Director of the Folger Shakespeare Library, shares his insights on 'The Winter's Tale', his favorite play by Shakespeare. He discusses the unique way the play engages the audience, requiring their hopes and wishes to create the magic of theater. The play's plot revolves around a king's grave mistake and the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation. Witmore highlights the adult themes and realism in the play, emphasizing the audience's role in desiring a hopeful resolution. He concludes by inviting viewers to enjoy the production and share their thoughts.

Who is Michael Witmore?

• A famous actor

• Director of the Folger Shakespeare Library

• A character in 'The Winter's Tale'

• A playwright

What makes 'The Winter's Tale' unique according to Witmore?

• Its comedic elements

• Its historical accuracy

• The direct appeal to the audience's hopes and wishes

• Its musical score

What role does the audience play in 'The Winter's Tale'?

• They are characters in the play

• They are critics of the play

• They are part of the magic and illusion

• They are passive observers

What mistake does King Leontes make in 'The Winter's Tale'?

• He forgets his lines

• He makes a terrible mistake with lasting consequences

• He loses a battle

• He starts a war

What is the consequence of King Leontes' mistake?

• It leads to a war

• It has real and lasting consequences for everyone

• It is quickly forgotten

• It is celebrated by the people

What is a central theme of 'The Winter's Tale'?

• Forgiveness and reconciliation

• The power of magic

• The role of fate

• The importance of wealth

What does the audience desire at the end of 'The Winter's Tale'?

• A tragic ending

• A resolution of conflicts

• More action scenes

• A new character introduction

What does the play's ending focus on?

• The introduction of a new plot

• The audience's desire for resolution

• The defeat of the villain

• The beginning of a new story

Why is 'The Winter's Tale' considered an adult play?

• It contains complex themes and decisions

• It has explicit content

• It is written in old English

• It is too long for children

What does Shakespeare acknowledge about the world in 'The Winter's Tale'?

• It is a perfect place

• It is full of magic

• It is not the world we want to live in

• It is a place of constant joy