What if a key to stronger communities lies in staying open to those around us? Shakespeare’s enduring plays show us that meaningful connections happen when we listen to each other, even across our differences.
In Coriolanus, Shakespeare presents a stubborn war hero who becomes preoccupied with destroying his own people as they clash over their differences. Yet when his mother makes a heartfelt plea, Coriolanus listens and, surprisingly, chooses compassion over revenge. This powerful moment reminds us that people can change their minds when we approach them with genuine dialogue.
As loneliness affects 1 in 4 Australians, Shakespeare’s wisdom feels more relevant than ever. Building stronger relationships requires us to engage with others, just like our Neighbours Every Day campaign shows—small everyday actions of connection can transform entire communities. [Read the full article →]
Author Dr Roberta Kwan is a researcher and writer who brings literature – especially Shakespeare – into conversations about social issues and what it means to be human. She also enjoys watching performances of Shakespeare’s plays in her spare time – for fun! Roberta is an Honorary Research Associate at The University of Sydney and an Honorary Research Fellow at Macquarie University.