William Shakespeare

Definition

William Shakespeare was an English playwright and poet, often regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. His works, which include iconic plays, sonnets, and poems, define the Elizabethan era of theatre and explore themes of love, power, jealousy, betrayal, and the supernatural. His innovative use of language and deep understanding of human nature resonate in both the characteristics and functions of theatre as a medium for storytelling and reflection on the human experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shakespeare wrote approximately 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several poems throughout his career.
2. His plays are typically categorized into three main genres: tragedies (like 'Hamlet' and 'Macbeth'), comedies (like 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'Twelfth Night'), and histories (like 'Henry V' and 'Richard III').
3. Shakespeare's influence extends beyond literature; he contributed to the development of modern English by popularizing many phrases and words still in use today.
4. His works often reflect the social and political issues of his time, offering commentary on class structure, gender roles, and human behavior.
5. The First Folio, published in 1623, is a collection of Shakespeare's plays compiled by his friends after his death, preserving many works that might have otherwise been lost.

Review Questions

• How did William Shakespeare's works define the characteristics and functions of theatre during his time?
  • Shakespeare's works defined theatre by combining complex characters with intricate plots that explored universal themes like love, ambition, and morality. His ability to use language creatively allowed him to capture the essence of human experience, making his plays relatable across different cultures and eras. This engagement with deep emotional truths made theatre a powerful medium for both entertainment and reflection on society.
• In what ways did Shakespeare's writing style influence the development of English Renaissance theatre compared to his contemporaries?
  • Shakespeare's writing style was distinct in its use of iambic pentameter and rich imagery, setting him apart from his contemporaries who often relied on simpler forms. His complex characters displayed a depth rarely seen in plays before him, allowing audiences to engage with their motivations and conflicts. This innovation not only elevated the quality of English Renaissance theatre but also paved the way for future playwrights to explore character-driven narratives.
• Evaluate how Shakespeare's choice of genre—tragedy, comedy, or history—impacted societal perceptions during the English Renaissance period.
  • Shakespeare's choice of genre significantly impacted societal perceptions by addressing contemporary issues through various lenses. Tragedies exposed the darker aspects of humanity, prompting audiences to reflect on moral dilemmas and consequences. Comedies offered a satirical view of social norms while providing relief through humor, allowing audiences to challenge societal expectations. His historical plays provided commentary on national identity and governance during a time of political turbulence, reinforcing his role as not just an entertainer but also a social commentator.

Related terms

Elizabethan Theatre: A theatrical era during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I characterized by an explosion of creativity in drama, with Shakespeare as its most notable figure.

Iambic Pentameter: A common metrical pattern used by Shakespeare in his poetry and plays, consisting of lines with five pairs of alternating stressed and unstressed syllables.

The Globe Theatre: The famous playhouse in London where many of Shakespeare's plays were performed, known for its open-air design and innovative stage.