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Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences, 2023, 6(12); doi: 10.25236/AJHSS.2023.061204.

Shakespeare and British Public Diplomacy

Author(s)

Zhengqi Shao

Corresponding Author:
Zhengqi Shao
Affiliation(s)

Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China

Abstract

Shakespeare has gained great popularity all around the world. The article is based on Harold Lasswell's 5Ws of communication and examines the UK's public diplomacy efforts exemplified using Shakespeare's plays as a cultural symbol. By analyzing the “Who (Sender), Say What (Content), In Which Channel, To Whom (Receiver), and With What Effect" of the UK's public diplomacy, this article highlights the strategic use of Shakespeare's works as a powerful public diplomacy tool for soft power projection. The UK government has strategically promoted Shakespeare's plays through festivals, media collaborations, educational initiatives, and cultural tourism, targeting both domestic and foreign audiences. These efforts have not only enhanced the UK's cultural influence but have also generated positive perceptions of the UK internationally.

Keywords

Shakespeare, Public Diplomacy, 5Ws Communication

Cite This Paper

Zhengqi Shao. Shakespeare and British Public Diplomacy. Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences (2023) Vol. 6, Issue 12: 22-26. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJHSS.2023.061204.

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