New this month from the University of Nebraska Press, is Beyond a Common Joy: An introduction to Shakespearean Comedy by Paul A. Olsen. In this very engaging and persuasive take on Shakespeare’s comic transcendence, Olsen shows how he took from the great themes of his day and molded them into a literary form “on par with epic and tragedy”. This week our Links will pay homage to this great playwright and see how Shakespeare fairs in the modern world.

1.    First off, in case you’ve been living under a rock for the past century (or two), let me introduce Mr. William Shakespeare…courtesy of Wikipedia.

2.    I don’t know about you but nothing says funny to me like Rowan Atkinson and Hugh Laurie. For a great skit, chock full of both comedy and Shakespeare, please check out Youtube.

3.    How well do you know Shakespeare?  In addition to his comedy, he is also famous for his last words.  Find out if you’re an expert with this quiz.

4.    Two things I bet you’d never thought you’d hear together, Bare Naked Ladies and Shakespeare. Curious what they have in common then find out on NPR.

5.    Shakespeare was the master story teller, but Hollywood tells all stories now. So how do you think Shakespeare would fair in Hollywood? Check out NPR to see what they think.

6.    I think it’s safe to say America is a little preoccupied with politics right now. If you’re curious about the link between politics and Shakespeare then go to the New York Sun for this interesting article.

Well, bloggers I hoped you enjoyed the links! Join us tomorrow for TWIH!