Shakespeare and the Secrets of His Fictive Genius: Unpacking the Myths of Plagiarism

Shakespeare has long been a subject of intense scrutiny, with many questioning the originality of his work. Some critics and scholars have even claimed that he "stole" the plots of his plays, turning them into something far greater. This article aims to explore the complexities of Shakespeare's creative process and the myth of plagiarism.

Who was the Real Plagiarist?

One might argue that Shakespeare himself was a master of plagiarism, adapting and transforming existing texts into works of compelling fiction. However, this view overlooks the historical context in which Shakespeare worked. Historically, playwrights were not expected to invent entirely new plots, although they were encouraged to add their own unique touches and interpretations.

The Dichotomy of Adaptation and Originality

In ancient Greece, theatre was often a religious ritual, and the plots were derived from the myths of the gods. Playwrights like Aeschylus and Sophocles were expected to interpret and present these myths in a way that resonated with their audience. Similarly, Shakespeare relied on sources like Holinshed for his historical plays, but he brought to these old stories a complexity, depth, and psychological insight that made them more engaging and relevant.

Shakespeare's Source Material and Adaptation Techniques

Shakespeare frequently drew upon historical and fictional works as his source material, particularly Holinshed's chronicler accounts. He took a simplistic old story and breathed life into it through his profound psychological understanding and innovative imagery. It's important to note that while he adapted these stories, he added his own twists, making the characters and narratives unique and fascinating.

Contemporary Reactions and Critical Perspectives

During his lifetime, Shakespeare's tendency to adapt existing stories caused some controversy. For instance, in his play Henry V, the king is depicted ordering the execution of French captives, a rather unflattering portrayal of the king. However, this action was a direct reflection of Holinshed's historical account. Other dramatists, such as Olivier and Branagh, chose to omit this scene in their film adaptations to better align with the heroic persona of Henry V.

Debunking the Myth of Plagiarism

The myth of Shakespeare's plagiarism persists, fueled by the eight volumes of Geoffrey Bullough's Narrative and Dramatic Sources of Shakespeare. However, this should not overshadow the true genius of Shakespeare, who embellished his sources with originality, flair, and wit. His works are a testament to his ability to take existing narratives and turn them into masterpieces of literature that continue to captivate audiences today.

Shakespeare and Greene: A Tale of Controversy

During Shakespeare's early career, another playwright, Robert Greene, lampooned him in Groatsworth of Wit. Greene famously called Shakespeare an "upstart Crow, beautified with our feathers, " but this criticism seems tame compared to his many admirers. Greene's printer later had to issue an apology in Greene's honor, following Greene's untimely death. By the end of his life, Shakespeare even used Greene's novel Pandosto as the basis for his play The Winter's Tale.

The Lack of Copyright Laws and Their Impact

In Shakespeare's time, there were no copyright laws to protect his work. Today, writers face a much more stringent landscape, where they must negotiate with agents and obtain permission to adapt existing works. This makes modern plagiarism questions much more complex and fraught with legal and ethical considerations. However, Shakespeare's legacy remains intact because his use of existing narratives was a masterful act, more about transformation than theft.

Conclusion: Shakespeare's Original Contribution

While it's true that Shakespeare adapted many of his plots from earlier sources, it is his unique contribution to literature that sets him apart. He embellished these stories with his own originality, flair, and wit, making them timeless classics that continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Far from being a plagiarist, Shakespeare was a master of adaptation, whose works remain a testament to his genius.