Bard's Arcana

Bard’s Arcana: The Tarot of Shakespeare – Where Shakespeare Meets the Tarot

Bard’s Arcana: The Tarot of Shakespeare by Greg Taubman and illustrator Eunice Choi is a 78-card tarot deck merging the worlds of William Shakespeare and the iconography of the Waite-Smith Tarot. Each image pairs a character or scene from the plays with the symbolism of the traditional tarot, creating a deck that is both literary and visually profound.

Why choose this deck?

• Connects the language and symbolism of Shakespeare with the timeless structure of the Waite-Smith Tarot.
• Includes 78 cards (22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana) printed on 350 gsm cardstock with a silky matte finish.
• Each card features a quotation from the plays, with intricate backs inspired by the wrought-iron gate at Shakespeare’s Globe in London.

Design and creators

Illustrated by award-winning designer and artist Eunice Choi from Seattle, known for her background in sculpture, printmaking, and watercolor. Written and conceived by theater director and dramaturg Greg Taubman, whose work spans The Public Theater and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Together they blend theater, literature, and art into a unified visual narrative.

Set contents

• 78 cards: 22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles)
• 120-page handbook by Greg Taubman with original spreads and interpretations
• Dimensions: approx. 2.75" x 4.75"
• Printed on 350 gsm cardstock with silky matte coating
• Illustrations by Eunice Choi
• Language: English
• Limited first print run of 10,000 decks

For whom?

Perfect for tarot readers, theater lovers, and Shakespeare enthusiasts seeking to explore symbolic links between art, story, and introspection. Ideal for both personal readings and literary study.

Usage tips

Try the four original spreads – Comedy, Tragedy, History, and Sonnet – from the handbook. Each card’s quote adds depth and context to your readings.

FAQ

Do I need to know Shakespeare to use this deck?

No. The handbook provides explanations and context for every character and quote, making the deck accessible to all readers.

How does this deck differ from the classic Waite-Smith Tarot?

While keeping the same structure and meanings, Bard’s Arcana replaces the traditional figures with Shakespearean characters embodying the same archetypes – for instance, Romeo and Juliet as The Lovers.

Is this deck suitable for both study and divination?

Yes. Its literary depth and symbolic richness make it equally valuable for personal insight, academic study, or creative exploration.

Let yourself be inspired – a valuable addition to your collection.

Last updated: October 2025