The Quest for Shakespeare is a television documentary series shown on cable channel EWTN. It is written and presented by author Joseph Pearce about William Shakespeare, and specifically the evidence that his religion was Catholic. The series comprises thirteen episodes that began airing May 2009. The shows feature dramatizations of pertinent scenes and excerpts from Shakespeare's work by actors from Theatre of the Word, a theatrical company founded by Father Joseph Fessio.
Contents
Episode 1
"Will the Real Shakespeare Please Stand Up?"
Looking into evidence that Shakespeare was Catholic.
Episode 2
His Father’s Will
The last will and testament of Shakespeare's father, modelled on a spiritual testament of Charles Borromeo, showing that the writer came from a devout Catholic family.
Episode 3
Faith of his Fathers
More on Shakespeare's family.
Episode 4
Living with Outlaws
Persecution of the Catholic faith as Shakespeare grew up.
Episode 5
A Rose by Any Other Name
Whether Shakespeare served as a teacher in the estate of the Catholic Houghton family.
Episode 6
Love’s Labours, Lost Years
The writer's "lost years", marriage and the baptism of his children as possible evidence of his faith.
Episode 7
Murdered Spy, Martyred Priest
Connections to Christopher Marlowe and St Robert Southwell.
Episode 8
Playing Safe with the Queen
Shakespeare's complicated dealings with Queen Elizabeth.
Episode 9
Family, Friends and Enemies
Potential proof of Catholicism in the writer's relations with Family, Friends and Enemies.
Episode 10
The King’s Good Servant
Difficulties of relating with King James I. How could he remain the King's while remaining faithful to his Church.
Episode 11
The Lessons of Lear
Evidence of Catholic sympathies in the work, King Lear.
Episode 12
Last Years
End of his career, return to Stratford, and the Catholic milieu.
Episode 13
“He Died a Papist”
Shakespeare’s will as evidence that his life and passing were as a faithful member of the Church.