Meaning: Mark Rylance, a renowned actor known for his work in both theater and film, has expressed the idea that performing and experiencing a Shakespeare play is an intuitive exercise. This quote provides insight into the unique and often profound experience of engaging with the works of William Shakespeare, one of the most celebrated playwrights in history.

Rylance's statement suggests that engaging with a Shakespeare play is not just a mental or physical exercise, but also an intuitive one. It implies that there is a deep, instinctive understanding that comes with immersing oneself in the language, characters, and themes of Shakespeare's works. This perspective aligns with the idea that Shakespeare's plays tap into universal human experiences and emotions, making them relevant and resonant across time and cultures.

When Rylance mentions "going through" a Shakespeare play, he may be referring to the process of studying, rehearsing, and performing the text. This involves delving into the intricate layers of Shakespeare's language, understanding the motivations of the characters, and grappling with the complex themes that are woven throughout the play. "Going through" a Shakespeare play is a comprehensive and immersive experience that requires both intellectual engagement and emotional connection.

Furthermore, Rylance's use of the word "exercise" suggests that engaging with a Shakespeare play is not passive but active. It requires effort, practice, and exploration. Similar to physical exercise, delving into a Shakespeare play demands discipline, stamina, and a willingness to push oneself beyond one's comfort zone. This aligns with the rigorous training and dedication required of actors and scholars who seek to fully comprehend and embody Shakespeare's works.

Rylance's perspective on the intuitive nature of performing a Shakespeare play also speaks to the power of the playwright's language and storytelling. Shakespeare's use of language, including his rich vocabulary, poetic imagery, and rhythmic verse, has a visceral impact on both performers and audiences. The emotional and psychological depth of his characters, as well as the timeless relevance of his themes, evoke a profound intuitive response in those who engage with his plays.

In addition, Rylance's background as a highly respected Shakespearean actor lends weight to his statement. His extensive experience with performing and interpreting Shakespeare's works allows him to offer a unique insight into the transformative nature of engaging with these plays. Rylance's career has been closely associated with Shakespearean theater, and his portrayal of iconic characters from the playwright's canon has earned him critical acclaim and adoration from audiences.

Overall, Mark Rylance's quote encapsulates the profound and intuitive nature of engaging with Shakespeare's plays. It speaks to the immersive, active, and instinctive experience of performing and experiencing these timeless works. Through his words, Rylance highlights the enduring power of Shakespeare's storytelling, language, and characters, inviting audiences and performers alike to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery within the world of Shakespearean drama.

In conclusion, Rylance's quote offers a compelling perspective on the intuitive exercise of engaging with Shakespeare's plays, shedding light on the transformative and profound nature of this experience. Whether as an actor, scholar, or audience member, delving into the world of Shakespearean drama involves a deep, instinctive understanding that transcends time and resonates with the universal aspects of the human experience.