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Core Argument - The book "Shakespeare in a Divided America" by James Shapiro explores how Shakespeare's works have been utilized to express American societal issues and conflicts throughout history, particularly during eight significant moments in American history [3][18]. Group 1: Historical Context - The book discusses eight pivotal moments in American history where Shakespeare's plays or related events sparked national controversies, with four cases in the 19th century and three in the 20th century, culminating in a notable event in 2017 [3]. - Shakespeare's themes resonate with contemporary issues, making his works a "secular scripture" that reflects societal anxieties and conflicts, such as race, gender, and power dynamics [4][18]. Group 2: Specific Events and Their Impact - The first chapter highlights John Quincy Adams' politically incorrect comments on "Othello," revealing deep-seated fears regarding interracial marriage and its implications in American society [4][6]. - A violent incident in 1849, stemming from a feud between American and British actors, escalated into a riot in New York, illustrating how theatrical performances can intertwine with class and national conflicts [6][10]. - The 2017 production of "Julius Caesar," which depicted a character resembling Donald Trump being assassinated, ignited a nationwide uproar, showcasing the potential for Shakespeare's works to provoke political discourse and division [7][9][10]. Group 3: Cultural Significance - The narrative includes anecdotes that demonstrate the American public's efforts to claim Shakespeare as part of their cultural heritage, such as the myth of a friend of Shakespeare's immigrating to America shortly after the playwright's death [12][13]. - Efforts to "Americanize" Shakespeare, such as Henry Cabot Lodge's argument for the legitimacy of American English through Shakespeare's works, reflect a desire to establish a cultural identity distinct from British influences [14]. - The film "Shakespeare in Love" illustrates the ongoing adaptation of Shakespeare's legacy to fit contemporary American values, further emphasizing the connection between Shakespeare and American culture [15][17].