March 19, 2014

Contact Msgr. Bernard
McGarty at 608-796-3788 or bomcgarty@viterbo.edu

“THE THEOLOGY OF SHAKESPEARE IN HAMLET” SUBJECT OF
MSGR. MCGARTY ECUMENICAL LECTURE APRIL 7 AT WEBER CENTER

LA CROSSE,
Wis. – William Shakespeare never gained fame as a theologian, nevertheless,
the religious language that abound in his greatest tragedy, Hamlet, will be the subject of a
presentation by Monsignor Bernard
McGarty, scheduled for Monday, April 7 at 7 p.m. at the Weber Center for the
Performing Arts.

McGarty’s talk is the latest in a
series of presentations he has delivered over the years as Viterbo’s Visiting
Scholar in Ecumenical Studies. His previous topics have included exploring the
separation of church and state, evolution, and the relationship between greed
and the economic meltdown.

In Shakespeare, McGarty is inspired in particular by
the religious language evident in the playwright’s rich dialogue and casting of
characters. “The scenes in Hamlet and
his other dramas employ theological insights that is also material for detectives,
psychologists, English teachers, or politicians,” McGarty said.

“Shakespeare’s tragedies often reflect on the seven
capital sins and other vices that were very evident in his tragedies. In Othello it is envy; in King Lear avarice, in Julius Caesar, pride or ambition. In Hamlet, Shakespeare examines pride,
envy, and lust,” McGarty said.

 McGarty’s talk
will also feature Viterbo University theatre students who will be on stage to
recite lines relating to religious beliefs and practices. The idea to focus on
Shakespeare was inspired by an outdoor performance of Hamlet by the American Players Theatre located in Spring Green.

The event is free and open to the public.

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