Page:The Russian Review Volume 1.djvu/163

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It is often said in Europe, half in earnest, half in jest, that it was Germany that discovered Shakespeare for the English. There is an element of truth in this statement, for nowhere has Shakespeare been studied so zealously as in Germany, and no other country has such a tremendous number of Shakespearophiles. Shakespearean Vereins are scattered all over the country, and it would be difficult to find a German town, however small, in which there is no such Verein. All this shows clearly enough to what degree Germany has "monopolized" Shakespeare. It is significant that in Germany, where, with the beginning of the present War, a campaign was started against all foreign elements of the national culture, no attempt has been made to part with Shakespeare; his dramas are still being played in German theatres, particularly in Max Reinhardt's playhouse in Berlin. In commenting upon this fact, the German press pointed out that Shakespeare is almost as much a German writer, as an English one, thus emphasizing the universal importance of the great poet.

In Russia, Shakespeare has not yet been studied as thoroughly as in Germany. But he is loved, truly and sincerely, in Russia perhaps even more than in Germany. To study, to systematize, to motivate,—this is the German's business. But when it is a matter of love, it is hard to vie with the Russian. Truly, Shakespeare is loved in Russia. This is proved by the fact that Shakespeare's works never disappear from the boards. Not only in Petrograd and Moscow, but in every town where there is a theatre, Shakespeare's dramas are staged every theatrical season, and attract large audiences. It is difficult to find, in Russia, a man of even limited education, who is not familiar with Shakespeare's work. Nor is this familiarity based upon mere reading of the plays; it is strengthened by the frequent opportunities afforded to see them on the stage. There is scarcely an actor of any prominence in Russia who has not attempted Shakespearean roles. As to the great actors, the Shakespearean repertoire was the beginning and the end of their histrionic art. Until