If This Be Magic

The Unlikely Art of Shakespeare in Translation

(Author) Daniel Hahn
Format: HardCover
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Why might Hamlet be even longer in Italian? How does the story of Romeo and Juliet begin . . . in Thai? How do you build a joke in German, or recreate a rhyme in Japanese? And why are Lady Macbeth's pronouns such a problem?What does it mean to translate Shakespeare? When we change all the poetry, all the wordplay, all the syntax - all the words! - is it still Shakespeare? And is it still any good? Daniel Hahn, seasoned translator and Shakespeare fanatic, will change the way you think about language itself. Ranging widely across Shakespeare's works, and across the world's languages, this book explores why we choose the words we do and what effect they have. No knowledge of any particular language is required, though a bit of patience for the nerdiest of close reading is desirable. This micro-attention to detail reveals anew the joy of Shakespeare, celebrates creativity and revels in the power of words.

Information
Publisher:
Canongate Books
Format:
HardCover
Language:
en
ISBN:
9781805301622
Publish year:
2026
Publish date:
April 9, 2026

Daniel Hahn

Daniel Hahn is a British writer, editor, and translator known for his translation work on numerous acclaimed literary works. With a focus on bringing diverse voices to English-speaking audiences, Hahn's translations have contributed greatly to the global appreciation of literature. His dedication to linguistic accuracy and cultural sensitivity sets him apart in the world of literary translation.

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