The Birthplace

Exploring the theme of authorship and the absurdity of bardolatry, the story follows Morris Gedge, who becomes the custodian of Shakespeare's childhood home. As he grapples with the expectations of his role, he begins to question the narratives he presents to visitors, leading to comedic mishaps. His wife's distress and the owners' warnings add to the tension, culminating in a humorous lecture about Shakespeare's childhood. The tale satirizes the reverence for Shakespeare while highlighting the irony of increased tourist revenue amidst Gedge's struggles.