Premier League Fans and Their Love for Shakespeare
Football and Shakespeare may seem like an unlikely pairing, but a recent poll has revealed that a surprising number of Premier League fans are fans of the Bard. In fact, a quarter of footie supporters in the top-flight league have expressed their admiration for William Shakespeare. The poll, conducted by WhichBingo.co.uk, surveyed 2,000 fans, with 100 from each club.
What is even more intriguing is that the club geographically closest to the home of Shakespeare, Aston Villa, has the highest percentage of fans who appreciate his work. Astonishingly, 43 percent of Villa fans claimed to have read at least one of Shakespeare’s plays or sonnets since leaving school. The proximity of Villa’s stadium, less than 40 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, may have played a role in fostering this connection between the club and the literary icon.
On the other end of the spectrum, Newcastle United fans showed the least enthusiasm for Shakespeare, with only 15 percent stating that they have explored his works. This disparity among clubs highlights the varying interests and cultural affiliations of football supporters across the league.
The overall figure for Premier League fans who appreciate Shakespeare stands at 26 percent. This suggests that his influence extends beyond the realms of literature and into the hearts of football enthusiasts. It is perhaps the shared experiences of triumph and tragedy that make Shakespeare’s works resonate with these passionate fans.
Susan Potter, a spokesperson for WhichBingo.co.uk, aptly remarked, “If anyone would have understood the triumph and tragedy of being a Premier League fan, it is certainly the Bard.” The emotional rollercoaster of supporting a football team can be likened to the dramatic narratives found in Shakespeare’s plays.
This survey sheds light on the diverse interests and cultural affiliations of football fans. It is a reminder that the world of sports is not limited to the pitch alone, but is enriched by the passions and pursuits of its supporters. Whether it is through literature, music, or other forms of art, fans find ways to connect their love for the game with other aspects of their lives.
In a previous study, Newcastle United fans were found to be the most likely to strip off and go bare-chested at games during the winter months. This shows that football fandom is not confined to the intellectual realm of literature, but also encompasses visceral displays of support. Seven percent of Newcastle United fans admitted to stripping off in all weathers to show their passionate dedication to the team.
Interestingly, Arsenal fans were the least likely in the Premier League to engage in such displays, with less than one percent claiming to have done so. This stark contrast between clubs demonstrates the wide range of fan behavior and traditions that exist within the league.
As the new Premier League season kicks off, it is evident that football fans are more than just spectators. They bring their entire selves to the game, with unique interests and connections that shape their experiences. The intersection of football and Shakespeare may seem unexpected, but it serves as a reminder of the richness and diversity that exists within the world of sports.