A University slapped more than 200 trigger warnings on William Shakespeare’s works — including for storms and popping balloons.
The University of the West of England also advised drama students that TV adaptions of Macbeth referenced “psychological distress” and “war”.
The so-called Scottish play about a murderous king was even hit with a notice that it contained “family trauma”.
In all, 220 were added to his works and multiple adaptations including versions from respected theatres, the BBC and ITV.
The Winter’s Tale was said to contain “accusations of adultery” and “references to wild animal attack” — as nobleman Antigonus is eaten by a bear.
Romeo and Juliet, which ends with the lovers killing themselves, was said to contain references to “suicide”, “distress” and “mourning”.
The Tempest, about shipwrecked nobles, carries alerts for “storms”, “extreme weather”, “drunkenness” and “witchcraft”.
A recommended 2016 stage adaptation was flagged because it featured the “popping of balloons”.
Free Speech Union leader Toby Young raged: “If I was a University of the West of England drama student, I’d be furious about being treated like such a snowflake.”
UWE, which is based in Bristol, said; “Content warnings were previously requested by students with sensory processing issues and experiences of trauma.”
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