Jan Kott

Jan Kott was a Polish political activist, critic, and influential Shakespeare scholar. Born on October 27, 1914, in Warsaw, Poland, he is best known for his works on Shakespearean drama, particularly his book 'Shakespeare Our Contemporary', which reinterpreted Shakespeare's plays through a modernist and existentialist lens. Kott's perspectives significantly influenced the staging and understanding of Shakespeare's plays in the 20th century, particularly in the context of European theater.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Shakespeare Our Contemporary

    "Shakespeare Our Contemporary" is a critical analysis that explores the relevance of Shakespeare's plays to modern society. The book argues that Shakespeare's themes are timeless and universal, delving into the ways his works address fundamental human issues and conflicts that resonate even in the contemporary world. Through a series of essays, the author examines various plays by Shakespeare, reinterpreting them through modern philosophical and psychological lenses, and demonstrating how they reflect the political and social realities of the twentieth century. The book has been influential in shaping modern interpretations of Shakespeare, particularly in the realm of theater, influencing directors and actors to approach the plays with new perspectives.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time