ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book introduces a theoretical framework that may well be new to many lovers of Shakespeare, and describes the systemic concepts that seem most relevant to drama. Drama is, by its very nature, interactional, so a focus on what is going on between people on stage should be a completely obvious approach, yet it is surprisingly neglected. Drama enables people to express powerful and previously unexpressed emotions, to step outside their habitual view of themselves and their relationships and to engage with the perspectives of others. Each experience of drama is one in which a confrontation with ambiguity is inscribed, just as it is in therapy. Family relationships can be tragic at times and most of Shakespeare’s tragedies have some kind of family drama at their heart.
