Perse Players 2021: The Shakespeare Project Friends, Romans, Countrymen Rhetoric: The art of using language effectively so as to persuade or influence others. In the current climate, our politicians and public figures are arguably as under the microscope as they’ve ever been. As such, the concept of rhetoric is one of clear relevance in today’s society. From the Prime Minister’s daily briefings to the nation to celebrities defending their misdemeanours on social media, the art of presenting a carefully constructed narrative as a means of persuasion or influence is ubiquitous. It might be equally fair to argue that nowhere in Shakespeare’s writing is the notion of rhetoric more important than in Mark Anthony’s iconic ‘Friends, Romans, Countrymen’ speech. Here, Mark Anthony is ‘given the floor’ to speak about his friend, the recently deceased Julius Caesar, at the hands of Brutus and his conspirators. From his rousing and iconic first line, to his heartfelt final words, Mark Anthony is acutely aware of his surroundings throughout this speech. He knows he must tread carefully, after all he is there ‘to bury Caesar, not to praise him.’ He even makes a conscious notion to thank Brutus for giving him the opportunity to speak. But through careful choice of language, tone and wordplay (which, for my money, represent some of Shakespeare’s cleverest work), he delivers a masterclass in rhetoric, casting doubt in the minds of the crowd as he sows seeds of doubt as to whether Caesar was really as ‘ambitious’ as Brutus claims. More enjoyable still are his repeated reminders to the crowd that ‘Brutus is an honourable man’ when it is quite clear he means the exact opposite! The beauty of performing Shakespeare’s, though, is in the opportunity to interpret and perform his work in different ways. Thus, it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience to discuss these ideas of rhetoric and public platforms with Malachy, Chicko and Liviana. As we talked about the speech in detail, we began to discuss where we could draw parallels. Alongside an appreciation of the unique nature of the Roman Forum as a classic theatre of rhetoric, we began to talk about why the notion of rhetoric feels so familiar. We talked about, for example, the need for politicians to make skilful use of rhetoric. We also talked about contemporary ways in which people of influence use different platforms to influence others and get their message across, not just politicians and leaders, but also celebrities, influencers and social media stars! Whichever way one frames their interpretation of this speech, there are still numerous things that unite the performances. Regardless of form, the function remains the same: a priceless opportunity afforded to Mark Anthony to win over a crowd and open their eyes to the true character of both Caesar and Brutus. In the three videos you will see three very different interpretations of Mark Anthony’s iconic speech: Chicko channels the rhetoric of a modern politician. In her address to camera, gravitas, carefully controlled narrative and diplomacy play a key role. There are important people in the room, but there are also millions at home hanging on Chicko’s every word!
Perse Players 2021: The Shakespeare Project - Friends, Romans, Countrymen
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