David Tennant Explains Why Shakespeare Still Matters

David Tennant Explains Why Shakespeare Still Matters

Why is Shakespeare Still Relevant Today?

The Timelessness of Shakespeare's Work

  • Shakespeare's ability to articulate the human experience is unparalleled, making his work resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.
  • He is credited with inventing approximately 1,700 words and phrases that are still in use today, showcasing his linguistic creativity.
  • Notable phrases such as "eating me out of house and home" and "all that glitters is not gold" originated from his plays, highlighting his lasting impact on the English language.

The Debate Over Authorship

  • There are conspiracy theories regarding the true authorship of Shakespeare's works; however, the focus should remain on the brilliance of the plays themselves.
  • Questions arise about why someone would hide their identity as a playwright during a time when it was not considered an esteemed profession.

Social Context and Perception

  • The perception that only noble individuals could produce great literature reflects societal snobbery; this notion undermines the capabilities of common people like Shakespeare himself.
Video description

Dr. Who star David Tennant is also a bonafide Shakespearean actor, so Stephen has a few questions for him. No, not the Hamlet question. "Subscribe To ""The Late Show"" Channel HERE: http://bit.ly/ColbertYouTube For more content from ""The Late Show with Stephen Colbert"", click HERE: http://bit.ly/1AKISnR Watch full episodes of ""The Late Show"" HERE: http://bit.ly/1Puei40 Download the Colbert App HERE: http://apple.co/1Qqgwk4 Like ""The Late Show"" on Facebook HERE: http://on.fb.me/1df139Y Follow ""The Late Show"" on Twitter HERE: http://bit.ly/1dMzZzG Follow ""The Late Show"" on Google+ HERE: http://bit.ly/1JlGgzw Watch The Late Show with Stephen Colbert weeknights at 11:35 PM ET/10:35 PM CT. Only on CBS. Get the CBS app for iPhone & iPad! Click HERE: http://bit.ly/12rLxge Get new episodes of shows you love across devices the next day, stream live TV, and watch full seasons of CBS fan favorites anytime, anywhere with CBS All Access. Try it free! http://bit.ly/1OQA29B --- Stephen Colbert took over as host of The Late Show on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2015. Colbert is best known for his work as a television host, writer, actor, and producer, and best known for his charity work teaching English as a second language on Tunisian date farms. Prior to joining the CBS family -- and being officially adopted by network president Les Moonves -- Colbert helmed “The Colbert Report,” which aired nearly 1,500 episodes and required Stephen to wear nearly 1,500 different neckties. The program received two Peabody Awards, two Grammy Awards, and several unwelcome shoulder massages. It won two Emmys for Outstanding Variety Series in 2013 and 2014, both of which appear to have been lost in the move. Colbert is pronounced koʊlˈbɛər, according to Wikipedia. His understudy is William Cavanaugh, who will be hosting The Late Show approximately one third of the time. Good luck, Bill!"