IDENTITY
Historical plays (Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V)
Literature
Work Summary
A grouped reference to Shakespeare's English history plays, particularly Richard II, Henry IV and Henry V. Together they trace dynastic conflict, rebellion, the education of a future king and the burdens of political authority across successive reigns.
Evidence Summary
Van Gogh thanks Theo for the Shakespeare: it will help him not to forget his English, but 'above all' he finds it beautiful. He begins with the historical plays he knows least well.
He says the characters are so alive that one thinks one knows and sees them, compares Shakespeare's human tenderness with Rembrandt, and says there are lessons there for present-day artists.
CONTEXT
Author / Source
William Shakespeare
Work
Historical plays (Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V)
Years / Period
2 Jul 1889
Van Gogh Relation
Compared / Connected, Requested / Intended to Read
EVIDENCE
Key Quotation
above all it’s so beautiful
CONNECTIONS
Evidence Trail
2 Jul 1889 — Letter 784
Requested / received / reading / compared with art
above all it’s so beautiful
Response: Van Gogh thanks Theo for the Shakespeare: it will help him not to forget his English, but 'above all' he finds it beautiful. He begins with the historical plays he knows least well.
Connection: He says the characters are so alive that one thinks one knows and sees them, compares Shakespeare's human tenderness with Rembrandt, and says there are lessons there for present-day artists.
Related Research Nodes
Study Subject
Themes
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