Shakespeare's Folio: Why "We" and "Wee" Aren't the Same
In our first installment of #FolioFriday, I talked about the value of using folio spelling as a clue when beginning to work on a new classical text. This week, I want to take an even closer look at the way Shakespeare uses spelling, specifically “long form” spelling. What is long form spelling? If you remember the second example in my previous post, the word "he" was spelled "hee" as a means of indicating that the line should be delivered with an exaggerated accent. This spel
Decoding First Folio: Misspelled Words or Actor Clues?
“Play with the text.” A common yet vague note. A note that can easily send an actor spinning in circles. But if you know what to play with - this note is all you need. This is where First Folio comes in handy. Let’s take a look at a couple quick passages from the Merchant of Venice. In Act I. Scene ii we meet Portia, and her lady in waiting Nerissa for the first time. It’s a great exposition scene, that can be a lot fun for both the actors and the audience. I want to point ou
