Exploring Myths About Shakespeare
In recognition of Shakespeare Day – let’s take a deep dive into myths surrounding the famous playwright. Shakespeare is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated creatives in the world. His works have been studied, adapted, and performed for over four centuries, making him a cultural icon that transcends time. However, despite his enduring popularity, there are many myths surrounding Shakespeare and his plays. In this article, we will explore and debunk these myths.
Myth #1: Shakespeare was not the real author of his plays.
One of the most persistent myths surrounding Shakespeare is that he was not the true author of his plays. This theory, known as the “authorship question,” suggests that someone else, such as Francis Bacon or Christopher Marlowe, wrote the plays attributed to Shakespeare.
However, there is no credible evidence to support this theory. The vast majority of scholars and experts in the field of Shakespearean studies accept that Shakespeare was indeed the author of his plays. The idea that someone else wrote the plays is largely based on circumstantial evidence and conspiracy theories.
Myth #2: Shakespeare’s plays are difficult to understand.
Another common myth about Shakespeare is that his plays are difficult to understand. Many people believe that his language is archaic and convoluted, making it hard to comprehend without extensive training in literature.
While it is true that Shakespeare’s language is different from modern English, his plays are not as difficult to understand as people often think. In fact, many of his plays are still performed today, and audiences of all ages and backgrounds are able to enjoy them.
Myth #3: Shakespeare’s plays are all about love and romance.
When people think of Shakespeare’s plays, they often think of love stories such as “Romeo and Juliet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” However, this is just a small part of Shakespeare’s oeuvre.
Shakespeare’s plays cover a wide range of themes and genres, including politics, power, tragedy, and comedy. His plays also explore the human condition, touching on issues such as greed, jealousy, and revenge. Shakespeare’s works are not just about love and romance but are a reflection of the complex and multifaceted nature of the human experience.
Myth #4: Shakespeare’s plays are only for the elite.
Another myth surrounding Shakespeare is that his plays are only for the intellectual elite. Some people believe that Shakespeare’s works are too highbrow for the average person to enjoy and that they are only performed in fancy theatres for wealthy patrons.
However, Shakespeare’s plays are for everyone. They have been performed in a variety of settings, from grand theatres to small community centres, and have been adapted into films, television shows, and even cartoons. Shakespeare’s plays are not just for the elite but are a vital part of our cultural heritage that everyone can enjoy.
Myth #5: Shakespeare’s most-produced plays are all tragedies.
Shakespeare is famous for his tragedies such as “Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “Othello.” However, his most produced plays are not all tragedies. According to statistics from the Folger Shakespeare Library, the most produced Shakespearean play is “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” a comedy that has been performed over 200 times in the United States alone. Other popular plays include “Romeo and Juliet,” “Twelfth Night,” and “The Taming of the Shrew.”
Shakespeare and his plays have become so ingrained in our cultural consciousness that myths and misconceptions have developed around them. However, by examining these myths, we can gain a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare’s works and the enduring impact they have had on the world. Shakespeare’s plays are not just for the elite, they are not all about love and romance, and they are not difficult to understand. They are a reflection of the human experience
