Who was the real William Shakespeare?

William Shakespeare, the towering figure of English literature, whose works have shaped the global literary landscape, remains a subject of profound intrigue. The debate over the authorship of his works has been a topic of scholarly discussion for centuries. Was Shakespeare truly the genius behind the timeless plays, or was he merely a front for another, more educated or well-positioned writer?

The heart of this debate lies in the authorship question, a centuries-old mystery that challenges the accepted narrative of Shakespeare’s origins. In this exploration, we will dive deep into the historical and literary context of the Shakespeare authorship debate, examine the evidence for and against Shakespeare’s authorship, and review the most prominent alternative theories. We’ll also delve into the implications of this debate for how we understand authorship, creativity, and literary history.

1. Defining the Shakespeare Authorship Debate

The Shakespeare authorship controversy centers on whether William Shakespeare of Stratford-upon-Avon wrote the works attributed to him. While traditional scholars support the view that Shakespeare was the genuine author, dissenters argue that someone else, likely of higher education and status, penned the works under his name. The controversy has sparked considerable intrigue, spawning a range of competing theories.

This debate is not just an academic exercise. It probes the nature of literary attribution and the circumstances in which great art is created. Can a man from relatively humble beginnings truly be responsible for producing some of the greatest works of English literature, or do the complexities of Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets suggest an author with more worldly experience and education?

2. The Historical Context of Shakespeare’s Era

Understanding the Shakespeare authorship question requires placing his life within the context of 16th-century England. The Renaissance was flourishing in Europe, and England, under Queen Elizabeth I, was entering its own golden age of art, literature, and exploration. Playwrights, poets, and actors were in high demand, and the rise of the English theatre provided the perfect platform for Shakespeare’s works to gain recognition.

Yet, this era was also characterized by political intrigue, religious conflict, and rigid social structures. Some scholars argue that the complexity of Shakespeare’s works, particularly their knowledge of court life, law, foreign languages, and classical literature, suggests that their author would need a level of education and experience beyond what a man like Shakespeare could have attained.

3. Evidence Supporting Shakespeare’s Authorship

Biographical Evidence
William Shakespeare was born in 1564 to John Shakespeare, a glove maker, and Mary Arden. Shakespeare attended grammar school in Stratford, where he would have been exposed to classical texts and rhetoric, but there is no evidence that he attended university. By the late 1580s, he appeared in London as an actor and playwright. Records of his life, though scant, include business documents, legal records, and references to him by other playwrights and writers.

Documented Works
The works attributed to Shakespeare were published under his name during his lifetime, and contemporaries like Ben Jonson and John Heminges acknowledged Shakespeare as the author. His collaborations with other playwrights, such as John Fletcher, and his involvement with acting companies such as the Lord Chamberlain’s Men and the King’s Men, further affirm his role as an active participant in the Elizabethan theatre scene.

Testimonies from Contemporaries
Peers of Shakespeare acknowledged his authorship and praised his literary genius. Ben Jonson famously honored Shakespeare with a tribute in the First Folio, referring to him as the “Sweet Swan of Avon” and celebrating his contributions to the literary world.

4. Theories Challenging Shakespeare’s Authorship

The Oxfordian Theory
One of the most prominent alternative authorship theories posits that Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, wrote the plays attributed to Shakespeare. Oxford was an aristocrat, well-educated, and a known patron of the arts. Supporters of the Oxfordian theory point to his sophisticated knowledge of court life and claim that his noble status prevented him from publishing works under his own name.

Oxfordians also emphasize the fact that many of Shakespeare’s plays were written after Oxford’s death in 1604, a problem they explain by claiming that the plays were completed before his death but published posthumously under Shakespeare’s name.

The Baconian Theory
Another theory proposes that Sir Francis Bacon, the philosopher and statesman, was the real author. Baconian proponents argue that the philosophical depth, legal knowledge, and use of allegory in Shakespeare’s works align with Bacon’s intellectual style. They claim that Bacon, who held high office, may have used Shakespeare’s name to avoid political repercussions or to maintain his reputation.

The Marlovian Theory
Some scholars propose that Christopher Marlowe, a contemporary of Shakespeare, could have written the works. Marlowe was a gifted playwright and poet who died under mysterious circumstances in 1593. Supporters of this theory suggest that Marlowe faked his death and continued to write under Shakespeare’s name.

5. Arguments Against Shakespeare’s Authorship

Critics of Shakespeare’s authorship question how a man with no university education, limited travel, and no substantial background in politics or law could have written works so rich in historical, philosophical, and legal knowledge. They point to the lack of personal manuscripts, letters, or extensive documentation linking Shakespeare directly to his works as evidence that he may not have been the true author.

Education and Background
Shakespeare’s modest education is often cited as a reason for doubt. Many scholars find it implausible that someone of Shakespeare’s background could have written such erudite works filled with classical allusions, legal terminology, and knowledge of foreign cultures.

Lack of Personal Writings
Apart from six signatures, all of which are spelled differently, no handwritten manuscripts, letters, or notes from Shakespeare exist. Skeptics argue that it’s unusual for a writer of his stature to leave behind so few personal artifacts.

6. Shakespeare’s Theatrical Legacy

Despite the controversy, Shakespeare’s influence on English literature and theater is undeniable. His plays revolutionized dramatic storytelling, blending deep psychological insight, linguistic innovation, and timeless themes. The characters he created, from Hamlet to Lady Macbeth, continue to captivate audiences today.

Literary Contributions
Shakespeare added over 1,700 words to the English language and shaped modern storytelling. His influence extends to countless writers, from Charles Dickens to James Joyce, and his works continue to be studied, performed, and adapted worldwide.

7. The Impact of the Authorship Controversy on Shakespeare Studies

The Shakespeare authorship debate remains a topic of active discussion in academic circles. Some scholars argue that resolving the authorship question would change our understanding of the Elizabethan theater and the history of literature, while others believe that Shakespeare’s identity is secondary to the brilliance of the works themselves.

The controversy has inspired research into literary attribution, encouraging scholars to reexamine how authorship is determined. In an era where literary collaboration was common, it is possible that the works attributed to Shakespeare were the result of multiple minds working together, further complicating the debate.

8. The Cultural Legacy of the Authorship Question

Public fascination with the Shakespeare authorship question has spawned books, films, and documentaries. While the debate may never be settled, the enduring allure of Shakespeare’s works ensures that his legacy will continue to thrive, whether or not we ever discover the true identity of the man behind the pen.

Conclusion

In the final analysis, the Shakespeare authorship debate is a testament to the enduring power of his works. Whether written by the man from Stratford or another figure altogether, the plays and sonnets attributed to Shakespeare continue to inspire and entertain. The mystery of Shakespeare’s true identity may never be solved, but his legacy as one of the greatest writers in history remains secure. The real question, perhaps, is not who wrote Shakespeare’s works, but why they continue to resonate with us centuries later.