Literature
Shakespeare and the Coins of Language: Words He Created
Shakespeare and the Coins of Language: Words He Created
William Shakespeare, the legendary playwright and poet, is often celebrated for his profound influence on the English language. Beyond his plays and poetry, he also coined a significant number of words and phrases that continue to be used in literature, everyday conversations, and academic discourse. This article explores how Shakespeare created over 1,500 words and phrases, highlighting some of the most notable ones, and delving into the historical context of his linguistic contributions.
The Marvel of Language Coinage
To coin a word is to invent a new term in a language. Some scholars estimate that William Shakespeare was responsible for adding over 1,500 words and phrases to the English language. This impressive feat underscores his genius as a writer and his profound understanding of the language. When he needed a word to describe something new or specific, he simply made it up!
Iconic Terms by Shakespeare
Here are some of the words and phrases that Shakespeare coined:
Archvillain Fashionable Full circle Lustrous Method in the madness One fell swoop Outbreak Sorrier sight Unearthly VulnerableThese words have become a part of the English language and are still used today, carrying the flair of Shakespeare's era.
Historical Context and Influence
Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1564, and lived until 1616. During his lifetime, the language of his plays was considered Modern English, which is why his language does not require translation for our time. However, it is important to note that the English language during the 7th to 13th centuries definitely needed translation. Shakespeare wrote in a language that was evolving and expanding with each passing day.
Words and Their Meanings
Here are some common words that first appeared in Shakespeare's plays and their meanings:
Admirable
Admirable: Deserving respect or admiration.
Example: Being honest is an admirable quality.
Auspicious
Auspicious: Favorable, promising success, a good omen.
Example: A wedding is an example of an auspicious occasion.
Baseless
Baseless: Without a foundation, not based on fact.
Example: If you accuse someone of wrongdoing, make sure that you have support to back up your claim and it is not a baseless accusation.
Shakespeare's Influence on the English Language
Shakespeare not only expanded the English lexicon but also changed the way people thought and expressed themselves. He added new richness to the language and made it more expressive and nuanced. His influence can be seen in the way we use language today. Even today, we often read or hear references to Shakespeare's plays and find ourselves using the words he invented in our daily conversations.
Conclusion
William Shakespeare was not only a master of the English language but a true pioneer of language coinage. His contributions to the language have been profound and lasting, and his words continue to enrich our world in countless ways. By creating new words and phrases, he expanded our linguistic capabilities and enhanced our ability to express a wide range of ideas and emotions.