This 1914 recording by Humphrey provides a valuable link to the historical presentations of Shakespeare, i.e., how the plays were performed by nineteenth-century/early twentieth century actors. We cannot go back any further than that period to hear how Shakespeare was actually recited. As Humphreys is certainly influenced by the performers who predated and surrounded him, it is therefore worth a listen because this dramatic presentation, captured at the beginning of the technological age of recording, demonstrates the more theatrical renditions that were produced in the late nineteenth century.

It provides a valuable link in studying the performance of Shakespeare and then comparing it to a modern production to see how a more naturalized sense of reading Shakespeare developed in the twentieth (and now twenty-first) century.

Pretty amusing solo here as recited by one Harry Humphrey (who, contrary to popular belief, did not run for president). This guy, imho, doesnt really have the chops to do Shakespeare, sounding somewhat like Bela Lugosi doing Antony at times LOL. He's constantly rolling and e-n-u-n-s-c-i-a-t-i-n-g which gets annoying quick.