Michael Dobson, Professor of Shakespeare Studies, Visited GDUFS

On 24th September, Professor Michael Dobson, Director of the Shakespeare Institute at the University of Birmingham paid a visit to Guangdong University of Foreign Studies. In the guest hall, Professor Dobson was warmly received by Vice President FANG Fanquan; YI Zhongyong, Deputy Director of the Office of International cooperation, and ZHANG Xin, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of English Language and Culture.

Michael Dobson and FANG Fanquan

The group picture

Vice President FANG had a friendly chat with Professor Dobson upon his arrival. At the beginning, FANG briefly introduced the university’s achievements and present situation. FANG considerately focused on the topic of Shakespeare, which was the guest’s main research area. Professor Dobson patiently answered every question, adding colour to the explanation with his own anecdotes. At the end, they exchanged gifts and took a group picture.

Michael Dobson Leads us into the World of Shakespeare

Michael Dobson gave a lecture about William Shakespeare in the library at GDUFS. When he was at grammar school, the study of Shakespeare gave poetry more meaning to him. His grandfather, an amateur actor, acted as the ghost in Hamlet. Now, he works as a Professor at the Globe Theatre, as well as the Director of the Shakespeare Institute at the University of Birmingham.

Professor Dobson’s lecture focused on the secrets of Shakespeare that didn’t consist of his gossips or rumors. Instead, his open and unfinished plays drive readers to establish their own understandings about Shakespeare. His works need performers to embody its meaning and atmosphere. Besides, Professor Dobson believed that Shakespeare was much more interested in his plays than his life.

Many famous celebrities have acted in Shakespeare’s plays. LU Yu, a well-known Chinese anchor, once cooperated with Professor Dobson in a Shakespeare play in Stratford. She acted as the twin sister of Sebastian – portrayed by the British Ambassador to China – in a recreation of the final scene from Twelfth Night. Benedict Cumberbatch, an eminent British actor, acted as the Prince of Denmark in Hamlet earlier this year. People from different generations have their own definition and interpretation of Shakespeare’s works.