King of Shadows Chapter 1: Nat's Journey Begins

Chapter 1: Nat's Journey Begins

Chapter 1 Summary

King of Shadows by Susan Cooper tells the story of a young boy named Nat, who uses the world of theater to escape his painful past and forge a hopeful future. Orphaned and burdened by grief, Nat finds solace in acting. He is magically transported back to Elizabethan England, where he becomes an apprentice to William Shakespeare. Under Shakespeare's guidance, Nat learns to confront his emotions and properly mourn his parents. King of Shadows is a poignant tale of self-discovery set against the vibrant backdrop of Elizabethan theater.

In 1999, the Company of Boys gathers in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for their first rehearsal of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar and A Midsummer Night's Dream. Nat, a member of the company, finds some of the initial theater games, like tag, childish for a group of teenagers. The director, Arby, uses these games to foster camaraderie and trust among the boys, emphasizing the importance of unity for a successful production. When a boy pranks Nat during a trust exercise, Arby swiftly dismisses him, highlighting the seriousness of their endeavor.

The Company of Boys comprises twenty-four members, including actors and staff, carefully selected through auditions across the United States. They will rehearse for three weeks in Cambridge before traveling to London to continue preparations and perform at the newly inaugurated Globe Theatre.

Throughout the first week, Arby employs various games to strengthen the company's bond. During the initial reading of the play, Arby critiques Nat's acting, pointing out his rapid speech and Southern accent. Afterward, Nat and other actors discuss Arby's strict methods with his assistant, Rachel. The conversation shifts to their passion for acting. When the group learns of Nat's parents' death, he becomes uncomfortable with the ensuing sympathy and withdraws, expressing his preference for escaping into his character in London.

Chapter 1 Analysis

We are introduced to Nat, the protagonist, as a quiet and introspective boy. He avoids conflict and readily apologizes for others' misdeeds. He is easily overwhelmed by Arby's criticism and excels at suppressing his true emotions. He finds solace in Rachel, the voice coach, due to her youth and relatability. Nat is a talented actor, eager to learn and contribute to the Company of Boys.

As an orphan raised by his aunt, Nat struggles to conceal his grief over the loss of his parents. His reluctance to discuss their death foreshadows his ongoing struggle with mourning. Acting becomes his refuge from the pain of reality. When his fellow actors learn of his parents' passing, he quickly changes the subject and ultimately retreats to avoid confronting his grief.

Key Observations:

• Nat's denial of his grief will likely escalate as rehearsals progress and he continues to suppress his emotions.
• Nat's reliance on acting as an escape mechanism highlights the therapeutic power of theater.
• Arby's strict approach underscores the dedication and discipline required for successful theatrical performance.