Tabletop roleplaying games and storygames offer a unique convergence of creativity, storytelling, and human experience, positioning them within the broader scope of the Humanities. While roleplaying spans many genres, this article focuses on traditional fantasy, the genre most closely associated with roleplaying. Exploring fantasy roleplaying games through the lens of disciplines such as literature, history, psychology, and sociology reveals their cultural and educational value.

The following is an excerpt from Dreams of the Midnight Kingdom. Happy Pride, everyone!

The setting of the Midnight Kingdom examines profound themes of gender, love, and marriage, prompting characters to confront and redefine traditional constructs of masculinity and femininity while asserting their individual agency within the confines of societal expectations. This exploration adds layers of complexity to the narrative, inviting players to immerse themselves in a world where gender roles are fluid, love knows no bounds, and the institution of marriage is subject to scrutiny and reinterpretation.

If you're looking to bring the dramatic and poetic world of William Shakespeare into your tabletop roleplaying games, understanding his works and the era he wrote in is essential. Whether you're crafting a Shakespeare-inspired RPG or developing Shakespearean scenarios, these plays will provide you with the insights and inspiration needed to create immersive and engaging experiences. Here are five plays I recommend reading to dive into the world of Shakespeare and incorporating its elements into your tabletop roleplaying games: