Welcome to the Bard's Arcana

Step into a rich world where the timeless wisdom of William Shakespeare meets the profound insights of the Tarot. Shakespeare's understanding of human nature was unparalleled, portraying universal archetypes that resonate across centuries. In this deck, his tragic heroes, mischievous fairies, and wise monarchs become guides, offering perspectives on life's challenges, relationships, and decisions. With meanings based on the traditional Rider-Waite deck, this reimagination uses the Bard’s creations to bring each card to life.

There are a few minor differences you’ll notice, if you’re already familiar with Tarot.

The first card of the deck is usually called The Fool, whereas here it is known as Naivety - a less negative view.

• The Hierophant is now the Counsellor

• Temperance is renamed Balance

• The Tower becomes The Blasted Oak

• The court cards have been renamed to be more accessible to contemporary interpretation

  • The Page becomes the Novice

  • The Knight becomes the Champion

  • The Queen becomes the Nurturer

  • The King becomes the Protector

About the Creator

Susie Hurley has been a fan of Shakespeare since the early 1980's and a regular visitor to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-avon. She and her daughter, Katie, run a shop in Reading (details below) selling, among other things, Tarot decks. They searched for a Shakespeare themed deck but found nothing. As a result, Susie decided to create one herself! The Bard's Arcana is the result. May these cards give you true guidance and inspiration.

Our shop

Spirit of the Earth
18 Harris Arcade, Reading, RG1 1DN

Open Thurs - Sun, 11am - 4pm