Group 1 - The 24th China Shanghai International Arts Festival International Performing Arts Conference commenced with a theme of "Linking, Consensus, Opportunities," attracting around 2,000 industry representatives from approximately 500 professional organizations globally [1] - Nine project cooperation agreements were signed on the first day of the conference, showcasing a dual-engine model of "exciting promotion" and "precise negotiation" to enhance the efficient linking of global performing arts resources [1] - David Bell, CEO of ISPA International Performing Arts Association, praised the event for its effectiveness in helping project parties quickly identify their market positioning [1] Group 2 - The Shanghai Ballet's performance department director, Li Jingshu, promoted the original ballet "Lily Flower," aiming to leverage the arts festival platform for broader exposure [2] - Zhao Chenxi, a business specialist from Xinjiang New Travel Performing Arts Culture Co., expressed that the arts festival serves as an effective platform for projects to "go global," highlighting the cultural significance of the dance drama "Kizil" [2] - Numerous international leading performing arts institutions, including the European Arts Festival Alliance, gathered at the conference, with events scheduled from October 18 to 20 for group exchanges, video promotions, and special showcases to present over a hundred distinctive projects to the international performing arts community [2]

Core Viewpoint - Shakespeare is recognized as a monumental figure in literature, whose works transcend time and continue to influence generations, exploring the complexities of human nature and emotions [2][9][10]. Group 1: Impact and Legacy - Shakespeare's plays reflect the duality of human nature, addressing themes of good and evil, love, and the intricacies of life [3][21]. - His works are celebrated not only for their artistic merit but also for their profound philosophical insights, impacting literature across Europe and the world during the Renaissance [9][10]. - The diversity in his writing style, encompassing tragedies, comedies, and historical plays, allows for a wide appeal and engagement with audiences [23][25]. Group 2: Notable Works - The four great tragedies—Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth—delve into the complexities and contradictions of human nature [14]. - The four comedies—A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Merchant of Venice, Much Ado About Nothing, and Twelfth Night—celebrate romance and the beauty of life [14]. - Each play serves as a mirror reflecting the audience's own struggles and desires, providing insights into the human condition [16][28]. Group 3: Translation and Editions - The recommended edition of Shakespeare's works is comprehensive, including 39 classic plays and various poems, making it a valuable literary collection [34][44]. - This edition is based on the renowned translation by Zhu Shenghao, which has stood the test of time and remains popular among readers [46][49]. - The physical presentation of the books is aesthetically pleasing, designed to enhance the reading experience and serve as a decorative piece [53][54].

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].