As perhaps the most celebrated writer of all time, it is only natural that Shakespeare's signature style would be embraced in a modern manner as is the case with the recently published 'William Shakespeare’s Star Wars' trilogy. Having hit stores last year, the last instalment of the series has since been published, 'William Shakespeare’s The Empire Striketh Back.'
Retelling George Lukas' epic sci-fi story in Iambic pentameter, the 'William Shakespeare’s Star Wars' trilogy was written by American author Ian Doescher. He states, "I’m not trying to pretend I have his genius. Hopefully it’s something that honours Shakespeare." Complete with Elizabethan-style black and white illustrations, CBC writes, "Libraries and school boards see the new book, which features Elizabethan illustrations, as a vehicle for encouraging children to read and better understand Shakespeare."
What's Driving This Trend
- Shakespearean Sci-fi Retellings
- There’s an opportunity to create more sci-fi classics retold in the style of Shakespeare, opening doors to new audiences for both genres.
- Reviving Classical Literature
- Taking classic works of literature and adapting them to modern genres could invigorate interest and influence new readers.
- Incorporating Classical Literature in Education
- Using modern forms of popular culture to make literary classics more appealing to students could be a valuable tool for educators.
Who This Affects Most
- Publishing Industry
- The publishing industry can leverage the trend of modern adaptations of classic literature to create new revenue streams and reach wider audiences.
- Entertainment Industry
- The entertainment industry can capitalize on the trend to create new content and generate interest in both classical literature and modern genres.
- Education Industry
- The education industry can incorporate modern adaptations of classical literature into the curriculum to increase engagement and interest in literary classics among students.
