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A Unique Shakespeare Adaptation
Shakespeare adaptations have a rich history in various art forms. From ballets to operas, Hollywood movies to teen comedies, Shakespeare’s works have been reimagined time and time again. But there is one type of adaptation that truly pushes the boundaries – taking popular entertainment and transforming it into a Shakespearean masterpiece.
Ian Doescher, the author of the William Shakespeare’s Star Wars series, has done just that. His books are based on the beloved Star Wars films, featuring iconic characters like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. In an interview with Stephanie Kaye, Doescher reveals the inspiration behind his unique adaptation.
The Birth of an Idea
Doescher’s idea to blend Star Wars with Shakespeare came from a combination of influences. After rewatching the Star Wars trilogy with friends and reading Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Doescher found himself at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. It was there that the idea struck him – what if Star Wars was rewritten as a play by Shakespeare?
A Collaboration with Lucasfilm
Turning this idea into a reality wasn’t an easy task. Doescher approached Quirk Books, the publisher of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, who then presented the idea to Lucasfilm. The response was overwhelmingly positive. However, Lucasfilm wanted Doescher to take more creative risks and fully embrace the Shakespearean style. With their feedback in mind, Doescher revised and expanded his adaptation, creating a unique and captivating series.
The Challenges of Adapting Star Wars
Adapting the Star Wars story into Shakespearean language and structure presented its own set of challenges. Doescher had to maintain the core storyline while adding Shakespearean elements. Lucasfilm provided guidance, ensuring that the characters remained true to their Star Wars personas. For example, Darth Vader’s soliloquy about feeling remorse for his actions was revised to align with his dark side persona.
The Art of Iambic Pentameter
Writing in iambic pentameter, the hallmark of Shakespearean verse, was another challenge Doescher faced. While he had some experience from high school and writing sonnets, it still required practice and fine-tuning. Over time, Doescher became adept at the rhythm and flow of the meter, transforming everyday conversations into iambic pentameter in his head.
To demonstrate, here is the opening prologue of the first book in the series:
It is a period of civil war.
The spaceships of the rebels, striking swift
From base unseen, have gain'd a vict'ry o'er
The cruel Galactic Empire, now adrift.
Amidst the battle, rebel spies prevail'd
And stole the plans to a space station vast,
Whose pow'rful beams will later be unveiled
And crush a planet: 'tis the DEATH STAR blast.
Pursu'd by agents sinister and cold,
Now Princess Leia to her home doth flee,
Deliv'ring plans and a new hope they hold:
Of bringing freedom to the galaxy.
In times so long ago begins our play,
In star-crossed galaxy far, far away.
Yoda and Haiku
One of the standout characters in the series is Yoda, known for his unique way of speaking. Doescher faced the challenge of capturing Yoda’s character in Elizabethan English. After considering various approaches, he decided to render all of Yoda’s lines in haiku. This unexpected twist adds an element of humor and fits well with Yoda’s role as a wise mentor.
Here is an example of Yoda’s haiku:
Nay, size matters not.
Look thou at me, I pray thee.
Judge me by my size.
Surprises and Easter Eggs
As the series progresses, Doescher ensures that each book offers new surprises for readers. From Boba Fett speaking in prose to added monologues for creatures like the wampa ice monster, each adaptation is filled with delightful surprises. Doescher also includes clever Easter eggs, such as references to Pride and Prejudice in the banter between Han and Leia.
The Legacy of Shakespeare and Star Wars
The William Shakespeare’s Star Wars series is not meant to be a serious analysis of Shakespeare’s works. Instead, it pays homage to Shakespeare’s style while celebrating the popular entertainment that is Star Wars. Doescher expertly combines the two, creating a unique reading experience that captures the essence of both.
In conclusion, Ian Doescher’s William Shakespeare’s Star Wars offers a fresh and entertaining take on the beloved Star Wars saga. By infusing the story with Shakespearean language and structure, Doescher has created a series that delights both Star Wars fans and lovers of Shakespeare. So grab a copy and embark on a journey to a galaxy far, far away, as imagined by the Bard himself. May the force be with you!