"O'Farrell sought to bring Shakespeare's likely long-suffering wife out of the darkness of his big shadow, and treat her with more generosity, via fiction, than many male historians and Shakespeare scholars have."
"Other historians have pointed out that with the 'best' beds in the house were reserved for guests, this 'second-best bed' was likely the bed Shakespeare and his wife shared."
"As the clairvoyant, slightly witchy Agnes, Kemi-Bo Jacobs smolders and erupts, bringing particular power to the role in the second act of the play."
Agnes, known as Anne, was Shakespeare's wife and eight years younger than him. Historians have often depicted their relationship as distant, citing his will's mention of a 'second-best bed' as evidence. However, some argue this bed was shared, suggesting a more intimate connection. Maggie O'Farrell's novel reimagines Agnes's life, presenting her as a complex character. The recent play adaptation emphasizes her strength and emotional depth, particularly through the performance of Kemi-Bo Jacobs, who brings a powerful presence to the role, challenging traditional narratives about Shakespeare's treatment of his wife.
Read at sfist.com
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