Exploring Shakespeare in Depth
Tuesdays
6:30–8:30 PM ET
on Zoom
$100/year
JOIN ANY TIME
What is THE PLUMMET?
THE PLUMMET is an ongoing, discussion-based Shakespeare study group led by Ben Atkinson (the Arch-Villein) and offered through Queen Charlotte’s Villeins.
We study Shakespeare’s plays one at a time, moving patiently through the text from front to back. The work is rigorous but generous, serious without being academic for its own sake, and always grounded in performance.
This is not a class, a lecture, or a book club.
It is a long-form investigation of how Shakespeare’s plays actually work.
Join anytime. Even if we’ve already begun a play, you’re welcome to jump in, participate, and catch up at your own pace.
How the Group Works
Each play follows the same structure:
1. The Whole Play
We begin with a full read-through of the play without stopping—either read together or heard through a Villeins performance read—so we understand the story as an audience would.
2. Deep Analysis
We then move scene by scene, line by line, examining:
- Language and rhetoric
- Argument and intention
- Subtext and circumstance
- Historical and theatrical context
Our perspective is performance-first: Shakespeare as an actor and producer writing for his own company, in a specific place and time.
3. Integration
Once the play is complete, we read it again—this time emphasizing story, momentum, and the “rails” discovered through analysis.
Each session picks up exactly where the previous one ended.
Discussion & Leadership
Sessions are two hours, held on Zoom, and led by the Arch-Villein.
The format is Socratic and collaborative:
- Everyone is encouraged to contribute
- Questions and disagreement are welcome
- Research and curiosity are rewarded
The Arch-Villein moderates discussion to maintain clarity, momentum, and focus—and to steer the group out of interpretive dead ends when necessary.
What We’re Studying
THE PLUMMET commenced in January 2026 with Richard II, and aims to move chronologically through the Henriad toward Richard III.
Given the pace and depth of the work, this may take years and may occasionally be interspersed with other plays.
We go where the work leads.
Who This Is For
THE PLUMMET is for:
- Actors, directors, and theatre-makers
- Serious Shakespeare enthusiasts
- Curious beginners willing to engage deeply
You do NOT need prior expertise.
You DO need curiosity, patience, and a willingness to plum the depths.
Who This Is Not For
This is probably not a fit if you’re looking for:
- Quick summaries or shortcuts
- A purely academic or literary approach
- A performance class or rehearsal process (with a deadline)
This is slow work, by design.
Membership Details
- $100 per year
- A minimum of 40 sessions guaranteed per calendar year
- Tuesdays, 6:30–8:30 PM Eastern Time
- Conducted via Zoom
- Attendance is the responsibility of the member
A short application is required to join.
Applicants may request one free audit session before committing.
Subscriptions are managed through PayPal and will require a PayPal account which can be created during checkout, if necessary.
Full terms are available here.
Apply to Join THE PLUMMET
THE PLUMMET uses a brief, thoughtful application to ensure the group remains focused, generous, and functional.
If approved, you’ll receive a link to join as a 12-month membership.
