Index Cultural relativity and the universality of Shakespeare Language and meaning The role of the anthropologist Implications for literary studies Laura Bohannan's essay, "Shakespeare in the Bush", constitutes a fascinating exploration of the universality of Shakespeare's works 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 narrative 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 a shared human experience. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Cultural Relativity and the Universality of Shakespeare The core of Bohannan's essay revolves around a critical question: Can Shakespeare's themes be universally understood, or are they deeply rooted in specific cultural contexts? Bohannan initially believes in the universal appeal and understanding of Shakespeare, a belief rooted in his academic background. However, as he recounts "Hamlet" to Tiv elders, he encounters interpretations and reactions that starkly contrast with his understanding of the play. For example, the concept of ghostly apparitions, central to the plot of “Hamlet,” is met with skepticism and reinterpretation by Tiv elders. In Tiv culture, the appearance of a ghost is not a valid explanation of events. They instead propose that the ghost is an omen or manifestation of witchcraft, reflecting their cultural beliefs and practices. This divergence highlights the idea that cultural contexts shape our interpretations and understanding of narratives, challenging the assumption of a universal Shakespeare. Language and MeaningLanguage plays a crucial role in Bohannan's fiction, illustrating the difficulties of translating not just words but meanings and concepts across cultures. The Tiv language has no 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 align perfectly with Tiv social structures. Bohannan's struggle to find equivalent terms highlights the inherent difficulties in intercultural communication. Furthermore, the nuances and subtleties of Shakespeare's language are often lost or transformed in translation. This is evident when Bohannan attempts to explain the intricate 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 rooted 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 an outsider trying to pass on a piece of her culture to the Tiv people, Bohannan finds herself in a complex position. She is both a storyteller and a cultural translator, navigating the delicate balance between respecting Tiv interpretations and asserting her own understanding of “Hamlet.” This dynamic is evident in Bohannan's interactions with Tiv elders. As they offer their interpretations and question his explanations, Bohannan must contend with his own assumptions and prejudices. His initial faith in Shakespeare's universality gives way to one.