The Echoes of Shakespeare: A Historical Perspective on His Legacy

In terms of biographical facts, surprisingly little has survived from Shakespeare's time. There is one notable exception in his will, which reveals an intriguing detail about his domestic life. The will states: ‘I gyve unto my wife my second best bed with the furniture’. This phrase, 'furniture, refers to the linen for the bed, adding a personal, almost humorous touch to the legal document.

When considering the historical context, it's important to remember that our window into the world of 400 years ago is quite limited. We have a few surviving books and diaries that mention Shakespeare, but no recorded conversations or documents akin to modern Hollywood papers. Early in his career, most people would not have said much about him since he was barely known to the general public. His plays, when published in the early and mid-1590s, often did not have his name prominently displayed on the title page, if at all.

Rival Playwrights and Early Criticism

One of the earliest criticisms came from rival playwrights. Robert Greene, in 1592, sneered at Shakespeare's origins as an actor, disparaging his lack of a college education. However, even these criticisms suggest that Shakespeare had become known in certain circles. During the middle of his career, around 1598, Francis Meres acknowledged Shakespeare as a very good playwright but not necessarily a standout beyond his contemporaries. Additionally, Ben Jonson, who famously mocked aspects of Shakespeare's plays, also showed a begrudging respect for his talent.

Early 17th Century and Beyond

During the early 17th century, references to Shakespeare and his works increased, often expressing admiration or simply showing that his plays were being widely discussed in popular culture. After Shakespeare's death in 1616, he and his works were often spoken of with greater esteem. His rival Ben Jonson wrote a glowing preface to a collection of Shakespeare's works in 1623.

Emergence as a Great Poet

The true apotheosis of Shakespeare, however, came after the Interregnum and the reopening of the theaters in the late 17th century. By then, he was seen not just as a playwright but as a great poet. This transformation in perception reflects a broader shift in literary and cultural values.

Further Reading and Resources

If you are interested in seeing actual references from Shakespeare's time, there are several useful sites that provide primary sources and historical context. One highly recommended site offers a wealth of information on Shakespeare and his contemporaries.

By examining these historical perspectives, we can gain a deeper understanding of how Shakespeare's legacy was formed and how his work continues to influence literature and culture today.