What is Known and Unknown About William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare, born in Stratford-upon-Avon, remains one of the most celebrated and enigmatic figures in literary history. Although much is known about his life and works, many aspects surrounding his genius and authorship have continued to intrigue scholars and enthusiasts alike. This article explores what has been definitively established about Shakespeare’s life and delves into the contemporary debate around his true authorship.
What is Known About Shakespeare
The capabilities of record-keeping in England during the late 16th and early 17th centuries allowed for a reasonably accurate documentation of Shakespeare's life. William Shakespeare was born on April 26, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, the son of John Shakespeare, a glove maker, and Mary Arden. His education, though rudimentary by modern standards, laid a foundation that might explain the erudition present in his plays. He was likely educated at the King's New School in Stratford, where he would have received a basic classical education comprising "little Latin and less Greek," as Shakespeare himself often acknowledged in his works.
Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, a woman eight years his senior, in 1582. The couple had three children together: Susanna, and twins Hamnet and Judith. The latter died young, a loss that would undoubtedly have influenced Shakespeare emotionally and artistically. Despite living in close proximity to his family, much of Shakespeare's year was spent in London, where he worked as an actor and playwright. His presence in the city's theatrical world is evident from records of his arrest in 1599 for allegedly starting a fight in the Wardell’s Lholders Taphouse. Additionally, his business dealings and involvement in lawsuits provide a glimpse into his life beyond the stage.
The Mysterious Case of Shakespeare’s Genius
What is perhaps most fascinating about William Shakespeare is the enduring mystery surrounding the source of his exceptional talent. His works are a testament to his remarkable creativity, but how he acquired this genius remains elusive. Throughout history, individuals such as Leonardo da Vinci, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein have exhibited similar enigmatic transformations from obscurity to unparalleled brilliance. The same enigma surrounds Shakespeare, whose educational background and early life do not provide clear answers to his unparalleled creative output.
His role as an actor in his own plays, such as the Ghost in 'Hamlet' and the elderly servant 'Adam' in 'As You Like It,' is well-documented. Some scholars suggest these roles may have influenced the way he crafted his characters and dialogue. However, the true extent of his contributions to these productions remains a subject of debate.
Shakespeare's Authorship Controversy
A significant and controversial aspect of Shakespeare's life is the authorship question. Scholars and enthusiasts have proposed that others, such as the Earl of Oxford, may have been the true author of the Bard's works. Some key points supporting this theory include the lack of any extant plays bearing the name 'Oxford,' the integration of Shakespeare's life and works into the stories of historical figures, and the linguistic and thematic echoes of Oxford’s early poetry and correspondences within Shakespeare's plays.
AprojectIdamental evidence includes travel records indicating that Oxford had the opportunity and means to travel to Italy, France, and Spain, mirroring the rich tapestry of locations and cultures invoked in Shakespeare's works. This supports the theory that de Vere may have used his firsthand experiences to inform his creative endeavors.
Current Relevance and Debate
The authorship debate is not merely a historical curiosity but a contemporary issue that continues to attract attention and engagement among scholars and literary enthusiasts. Most contemporary scholars support the traditional view that William Shakespeare wrote the canon, but the debate persists, with a growing number of young scholars subscribing to alternative viewpoints. This ongoing discourse highlights the resilience and complexities of understanding the life and works of this enigmatic figure.
It is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in Shakespeare's authorship and other aspects of his life. Engaging with the current literature and debates is crucial for anyone interested in unraveling the mysteries that surround this iconic figure in literature.