Shakespeare's Dialogue: Authenticity and Artistry in His Plays

For centuries, scholars and enthusiasts have debated the authenticity of Shakespeare's dialogue. Did ordinary people in the time of Shakespeare speak like the actors in his plays, or did he exaggerate their speech to create drama? This article explores these questions and provides insights into the unique qualities of Shakespeare's writing.

Was Shakespeare's Dialogue Based on Authentic Speech?

Shakespeare's use of blank verse has often been a topic of discussion. Was it necessary for actors to learn their parts more easily, or did it serve a deeper purpose?

While it is unlikely that people spoke in blank verse during Shakespeare's time, the playwright used it strategically. According to some experts, he employed blank verse to simplify memorization for his actors. This practice allowed them to focus more on the delivery and emotion rather than the exact wording. However, this does not diminish the significance of his work. Shakespeare's keen insight into human behavior and psychology is one of the reasons his plays remain popular today.

The Evolution of Shakespeare's Dialogue

It is important to note that not all of Shakespeare's characters spoke in iambic pentameter consistently. He developed certain conventions to differentiate between different social classes. For instance, aristocrats typically spoke in iambic pentameter, while commoners and clowns, like Touchstone, spoke in prose.

These conventions served a deeper purpose. There is a subtle joke embedded in this structure. Falstaff, a character known for his prose, occasionally speaks in iambic pentameter when he assumes the role of a noble or a king, such as Henry IV. This highlights the mock nobility of Falstaff's persona and adds to the comedic elements of the play.

Similarly, Prince Hal is bilingual, speaking in verse around nobility and in prose among the commoners. This characteristic reflects his shift from a commoner to a prince, and Shakespeare's genius in mirroring the character's development through language.

The Poetic Nature of Shakespeare's Plays

Another fascinating aspect of Shakespeare's plays is their poetic nature. Each of his 37 plays functions both as a play and a poem. This dual nature is a hallmark of his genius, blending drama and poetry seamlessly.

Shakespeare's choice to write his plays in iambic pentameter adds another layer of complexity. Each line in his plays adheres to this strict metrical form, where each line consists of five feet with an alternating pattern of unstressed and stressed syllables. The rhythm is crucial, as it not only beautifies the language but also enhances the emotional impact of the dialogue.

Gone With the Wind of Modern Poetry?

For a more contemporary analogy, consider the radio. When listening to popular songs, we understand the lyrics clearly. However, the words are sometimes rearranged and rephrased to fit the musical tempo and structure. Similarly, Shakespeare's lines are meticulously crafted to fit their rhythm and flow.

Take, for example, Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven." The poem uses a different pattern in iambic tetrameter, where each line has four feet, each with one stressed and one unstressed syllable. In contrast, Shakespeare consistently used iambic pentameter. For thousands of lines, in almost every play, he adhered to this strict form, demonstrating immense skill and dedication.

To put this into perspective, imagine the effort required to maintain this rhythm and structure throughout a play that takes around three hours to read aloud. The precision and consistency needed for this task make Shakespeare's achievement even more remarkable.

Conclusion

Shakespeare's dialogue is as much about artistry as it is about authenticity. While it is unlikely that everyone spoke in blank verse in his time, the dialogue in his plays is a carefully crafted blend of poetic and dramatic elements. His vision extended far beyond mere historical accuracy, and his plays continue to captivate audiences today.

Whether you are studying Shakespeare for the first time or revisiting his works, understanding the intricacies of his dialogue will deepen your appreciation for his genius. His poetic mastery and insightful portrayal of human nature make his plays timeless and enduring.