Shakespeare on the Shades of Racism

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This examination of Shakespeare engages with ongoing discussions about the vulnerability of Black and brown individuals within oppressive structures that devalue their worth. It highlights how these individuals are racialized, politicized, and often violated in contemporary society, offering insights into our ethical responsibilities in confronting brutal racism. The work is structured into seven concise chapters that address pressing contemporary issues, including the murders of unarmed Black individuals, the militarization of the U.S.-Mexico border, anti-immigrant legislation, exclusionary practices against Syrian refugees, healthcare inequities for women of color, the rise of white nationalism, and the dangers of complicity in racist paradigms. By connecting these modern issues with a diverse range of Shakespeare's plays, the chapters reveal how the pervasive racism and discord of today imbue Shakespeare’s exploration of (in)humanity, hospitality ethics, insularity, power abuses, and the vulnerability of political states and their subjects with urgent relevance. The book juxtaposes Shakespeare with current events and cultural discussions on race, ethnicity, xenophobia, immigration, and nationalism, underscoring his cultural and literary significance. It is a vital read for students of literary studies and Shakespeare.