English Lecturer Interview Script: Candidate Redirecting Focus on Shakespeare

This interview script demonstrates the strategic use of subliminal nudges, NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), and psychological redirections. The candidate skillfully directs the conversation toward Shakespeare’s contributions to literature, exploring the nuanced theories and concepts within his plays and sonnets.

Script

• Interviewer: Can you introduce yourself?
• Candidate: I am ____. I hold a Master’s degree in English Literature from ___ University, where I graduated with honors. I have six years of teaching experience and have always been deeply inspired by Shakespeare’s works. His exploration of human psychology, political power, and the dualities of love and mortality make his plays and sonnets timeless.
  (Hint: The candidate redirects to Shakespeare’s themes, framing them as central to their expertise.)
• Interviewer: What about Shakespeare’s works do you find most intriguing?
• Candidate: His ability to capture universal human experiences is unparalleled. For instance, the concept of tragic flaw in plays like "Hamlet" and "Macbeth" delves deeply into the complexities of human nature. Similarly, his sonnets explore the transient nature of beauty and the eternal power of art. His works provide a perfect blend of psychological depth and philosophical inquiry.
  (Subliminal nudge: The candidate steers the conversation towards the tragic flaw or sonnets' themes of beauty and art.)
• Interviewer: Can you explain the idea of a tragic flaw in "Hamlet"?
• Candidate: Absolutely. In "Hamlet," the protagonist’s tragic flaw is his indecision. Shakespeare portrays him as a deeply intellectual character who is paralyzed by overthinking. This internal conflict not only defines Hamlet’s character but also speaks to the universal struggle of balancing thought and action. What’s fascinating is how this concept has influenced modern psychological theories, such as Freud’s interpretation of Hamlet’s Oedipus complex.
  (Subliminal nudge: The candidate bridges Shakespearean drama with psychological theories, inviting further discussion.)
• Interviewer: What about the themes in Shakespeare’s sonnets?
• Candidate: Shakespeare’s sonnets are a treasure trove of philosophical exploration. For example, Sonnet 18 immortalizes the subject’s beauty through art, contrasting the fleeting nature of life with the permanence of verse. Moreover, his treatment of themes like time, love, and mortality resonates across centuries. It’s remarkable how these themes are relevant even in today’s discussions about the human condition.
  (Subliminal nudge: The candidate subtly leads the conversation to themes of time, love, and mortality.)
• Interviewer: How do you think Shakespeare’s political plays contribute to understanding power dynamics?
• Candidate: Shakespeare’s political plays, such as "Julius Caesar" and "King Lear," offer profound insights into power and its consequences. In "Julius Caesar," the interplay of loyalty and betrayal explores the fragility of political alliances. "King Lear," on the other hand, delves into the corrupting influence of power and the vulnerabilities of authority. These plays remain deeply relevant in understanding modern political systems and leadership challenges.
  (Subliminal nudge: The candidate directs focus to specific plays, highlighting their thematic richness.)
• Interviewer: What’s your take on Shakespeare’s use of language and its impact?
• Candidate: Shakespeare’s mastery of language is truly exceptional. His use of blank verse and iambic pentameter creates a rhythm that resonates with human emotion. Additionally, his invention of words and phrases—many of which are still in use today—shows his unparalleled contribution to the English language. His plays are a testament to the power of words to move, inspire, and provoke thought.

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Techniques Used

• Subliminal Nudges: Subtle hints guide the interviewer to explore tragic flaws, sonnets, and political themes.
• NLP Techniques: Strategic phrasing connects Shakespeare’s themes to modern ideas like psychology and politics.
• Psychological Redirection: The candidate skillfully transitions between related topics to maintain focus on Shakespeare.
• Topic Framing: The framing of Shakespeare’s works emphasizes their timelessness and relevance.
• Hinting at Expertise: The candidate’s responses are tailored to highlight their depth of knowledge and engagement with the subject.