Bardisms: Shakespeare for All Occasions

by Barry Edelstein

“Browse the delightful Bardisms to find a fitting quote for any mood, moment, or occasion. But read it through to learn how to enjoy Shakespeare and bring more of his language into your daily life.” — Jacob Weisberg, Editor of Slate magazine and author of Bushisms “A fantastic reference for anyone who loves Shakespeare!” — Steve Martin From renowned Shakespearean director Barry Edelstein comes Bardisms : a straightforward, accessible guide to using Shakespeare’s wit and wisdom at special occasions of every type. Over the course of his career, Edelstein has directed more than half of Shakespeare’s plays, and he brings all his passion, insight, and years of study to Bardisms . In the words of Adam Gopnik ( Through the Children's Gate ), “Barry Edelstein knows more about Shakespeare, and in a less pedantic manner, than nearly anyone I know.”

Genres: Reference, Shakespeare, Nonfiction, Ebooks, Criticism, Literary Fiction, Dictionaries

320 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2009

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

shakespeare for the extremely short attention spanned. i read this book entirely on the toilet, and it still only took me a couple of weeks. but there's some good nuggets in there. the book, i mean.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is worth a read for the Shakespeare challenged reader. Barry gives instruction on how to read Shakespeare as well as breaking it down so that it becomes more understandable. I wished it had been around for when I had to read some Shakespeare in college. It is definitely NOT a stuffy read but a fun one with amusing antidotes and situations. An enjoyable read even for those not into non-fiction books (although it may take longer to read because one wants to make sure they learn from it too! - Fictional books occasionally got in my way of reading "Bardisms")

[Susan Liston · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't "do" public speaking, and I mean none, I don't give speeches, make toasts, say grace, or even sing along with Happy Birthday. I am a crabby curmudgeon. So the part of this book providing quotes for doing that was pointless for me. And it was even annoying, because he blithely recommends substituting names and swapping genders to make the quote "fit" the situation. That is not quoting Shakespeare, that is bowdlerizing Shakespeare to be cute or heartwarming or whatever and it would annoy the crap out of me (curmudgeon, remember) if I was present to hear it. But putting that aside, this book was interesting to read. Bary Edelstein teaches and directs Shakespeare and is good at translating and expounding on his choices of quotes. Lots of fine tidbits to be had. I'm sure I'll reference it again.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Useful Guide to Shakespeare Quotes

This guide is well organized by topic, allowing the reader to select an appropriate quote for almost any occasion. The author also explains the meaning and indicates how the quote might be used. Shakespeare can be inscrutable to those who are not scholars, so it’s quite handy to know what Shakespeare’s language actually meant!

[Paschalis]

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[Don Heiman · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Bardisms: Shakespeare for All Occasions" by Barry Edelstein published in 2009 explains techniques which can be used to explore the brilliance of Shakespeare's writings. Edelstein's reading techniques include methods for understanding verses, listening to vowel sounds that convey emotions and emphasis, and ways to use syllables for cadence and alliteration. The techniques greatly improved my understanding of Shakespeare's enduring wisdom. This is an exceptional book written by an accomplished theatre director and scholar.

[Danielle Morency · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some insight to everyday usage of Shakespearean quotes. Kind of limited in scope since the author wanted this book to appeal to a wider audience. One needn't be completely cerebral to understand the meanings of the quotes; Edelstein generally picks an easily decipherable quote. Even if there's still some question as to the language, the writer includes a synopsis put into everyday language.

[Winnie Thornton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good snippet-by-snippet intro to Shakespeare at his most quotable, with plenty of advice on oral delivery and handy commentary on original context. Made me want to read more.

[Ken · Rating 1 out of 5]

wonderful read. Light but insightful.

[Evalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was unusual but I am intrigued by anything by the Bard or about his life and his writing.

[Eric W · Rating 2 out of 5]

It didn't hold my interest.

[Patrick Gibson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Always good to have another book of Shakespeare quotes.