Shakespeare’s relevance questioned in new series of The Teacher
The brand-new third series of The Teacher on Channel 5 has reignited discussions surrounding Shakespeare’s relevance to modern audiences, particularly in the context of perceived issues regarding consent, reports BritPanorama.
Miss Helen Simpson (Victoria Hamilton), recently appointed Head of Drama at a prestigious private school, faces a challenge from one of her students, Cressida Bancroft (Alice Grant). Cressida’s strong stance against the inclusion of Shakespeare’s works in the curriculum reflects a growing narrative surrounding “cancel culture.” Helen, frustrated, expresses her concerns about Cressida’s critical views on Shakespeare’s 16th-century attitudes, stating, “They’re trying to cancel Shakespeare!”
This portrayal of cancel culture serves as a device for creating tension between characters and offers a critique of contemporary social dialogues. Previous examples on UK television include Channel 4’s Douglas is Cancelled and Netflix’s The Chair, which both depict the consequences of public backlash and personal accountability in professional settings.
However, The Teacher presents a twist by positioning Cressida as the object of criticism while simultaneously failing to garner the viewer’s sympathy. Her extreme suggestion to remove one of Shakespeare’s most renowned plays, alongside her actions of burning copies outside her teacher’s home, further alienates her from any supportive stance. This portrayal raises questions about the consequences of actions taken in the name of activism.
Cancellations can be perceived as a lesson in accountability, particularly for individuals whose statements provoke public outrage. In contrast, the notion of cancelling a long-deceased playwright complicates the conversation, emphasizing that critical dialogue must exist within the context of engagement with the material rather than outright dismissal.
The suggestion that Shakespeare’s works should not be studied detracts from broader educational narratives. This series also introduces Dee, a transgender pupil navigating their identity alongside Helen, which complicates the classroom dynamics further. An explosive exchange between Helen and Cressida inadvertently affects Dee, with dire implications, highlighting the precarious emotional landscape that educators and students must navigate.
As the series progresses, it is anticipated that the focus on Shakespeare may evolve as The Teacher delves into darker themes. The opening episode, however, serves as a reminder of the pressures within educational environments, often leading to conflict as both students and teachers strive to assert their perspectives.
While the depiction of cancel culture may appear sensationalized within the confines of a drama series, The Teacher ultimately addresses a significant truth: that personal disagreements can obscure the profound emotional impacts on individuals, leading to potentially harmful outcomes.
The Teacher continues tomorrow at 9pm on Channel 5.
