Table of ContentsCultural Relativity and Universality of ShakespeareLanguage and MeaningThe Role of the AnthropologistImplications for Literary StudiesLaura Bohannan's essay, “Shakespeare in the Bush,” constitutes a fascinating exploration of the universality of Shakespeare. The works of Shakespeare through the lens of cultural anthropology. In the essay, Bohannan recounts his experience trying to convey the story of “Hamlet” to the Tiv people of West Africa. His account provides a rich tapestry for examining cross-cultural interpretations of literary texts, challenging the idea that Shakespeare's themes are universally understood. Bohannan's essay reveals the complexities of cultural translation and the limits of assuming shared human experience. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Cultural Relativity and Shakespeare's Universality The heart of Bohannan's essay revolves around a crucial question: Can Shakespeare's themes be universally understood, or are they deeply rooted in specific cultural contexts? Bohannan initially believed in the universal appeal and understanding of Shakespeare, a belief rooted in his academic background. However, as she recounts "Hamlet" to the Tiv elders, she encounters interpretations and reactions that contrast sharply with her own understanding of the play. For example, the concept of ghostly apparitions, central to the plot of “Hamlet,” is encountered. skepticism and reinterpretation by ancient Tiv people. In Tiv culture, the appearance of a ghost is not a viable explanation for events. Instead, they propose that the ghost is an omen or manifestation of witchcraft, reflecting their own cultural beliefs and practices. This divergence highlights the idea that cultural backgrounds shape our interpretations and understanding of stories, calling into question the assumption of a universal Shakespeare. Language and MeaningLanguage plays a crucial role in Bohannan's narrative, illustrating the difficulties of translating not only words but also meanings and concepts across cultures. The Tiv language lacks direct equivalents for many of the terms and ideas found in “Hamlet”. For example, the concept of "king", as understood in a European context, does not fit neatly into Tiv social structures. Bohannan's struggle to find equivalent terms highlights the difficulties inherent in intercultural communication. Additionally, the nuances and subtleties of Shakespeare's language are often lost or transformed in translation. This is evident when Bohannan attempts to explain the complex relationships and motivations of the characters in “Hamlet.” Tiv elders interpret these relationships through the lens of their own social norms and values, leading to reinterpretations that differ significantly from the original text. This highlights the idea that language is not a neutral medium but is deeply embedded in cultural meanings and assumptions. The Role of the Anthropologist Bohannan's essay also raises important questions about the role of the anthropologist as a mediator between cultures. As a foreigner trying to pass on some of her own culture to the Tiv people, Bohannan finds herself in a complex position. She is both storyteller and cultural translator, navigating the delicate balance between respecting Tiv interpretations and asserting her own understanding of “Hamlet.” This dynamic is evident in the..