Shakespeare in Montana
Shakespeare in Montana
Big Sky Country’s Love Affair with the World’s Most Famous Writer
Winner of the 2020 Montana Book Award
2021 High Plains Book Award for Nonfiction Finalist
Tracing more than two centuries of history, Shakespeare in Montana uncovers a vast array of different voices that capture the state's love affair with the world's most famous writer. From mountain men, pioneers, and itinerant acting companies in mining camps to women's clubs at the turn of the twentieth century and the contemporary popularity of Shakespeare in the Parks throughout Montana, the book chronicles the stories of residents across this incredible western state who have been attracted to the words and works of Shakespeare. Minton explores this unique relationship found in the Treasure State and provides considerable insight into the myriad places and times in which Shakespeare's words have been heard and discussed. By revealing what Shakespeare has meant to the people of Montana, Minton offers us a better understanding of the state's citizens and history while providing a key perspective on Shakespeare's enduring global influence.
From the opening acknowledgments, I knew this was going to be an interesting look at Montana history. . . . Minton offers historical details and anecdotes as well as historic photographs to give the reader a better understanding of the state's citizens and history while providing a perspective on Shakespeare's enduring global influence.'--Barbara Theroux, Missoulian
Gretchen E. Minton is a professor in the Department of English at Montana State University. She is also the editor of several books and critical editions, including Timon of Athens and The Revenger’s Tragedy.
List of Illustrations
Preface
Acknowledgments
Prologue. Waiting for the Shakespeare
Chapter One. Men of the Mountains
Interlude One. Cowboys
Chapter Two. The Golden Age
Interlude Two. Ciphers
Chapter Three. Women's Roles
Interlude Three. Anniversary Celebrations
Chapter Four. Travelers and Settlers of the Theatre
Interlude Four. The Margins
Chapter Five. In the Schoolhouses
Interlude Five. Artists
Chapter Six. Freeing Shakespeare
Epilogue. Saved by Shakespeare
Notes
Bibliography
Index
