How my virtual visit to the State Library has expanded my knowledge of Shakespeare and his place in the world.
Virtually exploring the State Library of NSW was a fascinating experience, one that I am grateful for as it truly allowed me to stop and think for a moment as to how one person can construct such timeless pieces of literature. Shakespeare was this person, an important figure in the literary world, and my visit has broadened my mindset as to where he stood in the world and the legacy he has left behind.
Through exploring The Shakespeare Room, located in the Mitchell Wing of the State Library, I was able to delight in viewing the intricate designs radiating throughout the room including the prominent stained glass windows that depicts the seven ages of man from ‘As you Like It’ (Act II, Scene VII). It further beckoned me to view the literary piece that inspired it, which famously includes the line, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players”. As I reflected upon this powerful line, my knowledge of Shakespeare and his place in the world expanded. I was able to view, from his own lens, how he saw the world and his place in it. He communicates that we as humans believe we are in control of our lives. Are we? People appear on this stage then disappear, embody different roles: student, mother, father, athlete. We are all players, fulfilling a role, players in each other’s stories. It beckoned me to ask myself, Are we ever truly the protagonist?
It’s amazing how by viewing a stained glass window I was able to truly immerse myself in Shakespeare’s literary work, his literary piece that expanded my knowledge of him. Experiences like this educate, inspire and allow for reflection and so my appreciation of Shakespeare, not just as a writer but as an individual, was heightened. His legacy has manifested itself in various aspects within society; from students studying his work, like I am now, to tourists who venture across the globe to stare in awe at this stained glass window and reflect upon his literary masterpieces. The State Library may appear to some as just another building but it is a sanctuary to timeless pieces of literature. It is a place that illuminates the legacy of Shakespeare. Even though it was a ‘virtual’ visit, it was his legacy that made me feel as if I was there. Truly there.
Image retrieved from: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/stories/shakespeare-library/shakespeare-room
Holly’s Blog 
An enthusiastic response Holly. So glad you could make it to our “virtual” tour! I have responded to your other questions via email.
Good wishes
Michael
*Please attend to editing your work carefully. Here is what I have picked up:
*embody different roles; student, mother, father, athlete. = embody different roles: student, mother, father, athlete. – use : here not ; Explore the differences right here: ; is not appropriate here- it is usually a replacement for a full-stop when two sentences are closely linked in meaning. So it is a bit like putting a brick in the middle of a sentence and shouldn’t replace the more mild comma!
for further details on colons see: Use a colon (often used for introducing quotes) : For proper use of colons see http://owl.english.purdue.edu/engagement/3/7/97/
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/607/04/
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