Podcast
Questions and Answers
What was one reason scholars began to question Shakespeare's authorship in the 19th century?
What was one reason scholars began to question Shakespeare's authorship in the 19th century?
- He produced too many works in a short period.
- There was a lack of biographies written about him.
- His life experiences were deemed incompatible with his literary genius. (correct)
- His contemporaries did not appreciate his work.
Which of the following writers was NOT mentioned as a candidate for Shakespeare's authorship?
Which of the following writers was NOT mentioned as a candidate for Shakespeare's authorship?
- Sir Francis Bacon
- John Milton (correct)
- Christopher Marlowe
- Edward de Vere
What aspect of Shakespeare's works seems to contradict the argument against his authorship?
What aspect of Shakespeare's works seems to contradict the argument against his authorship?
- His lack of aristocratic connections.
- The absence of complex themes in his poetry.
- The simple language used in his plays.
- The broad learning and court knowledge displayed in his writings. (correct)
How did the public view Shakespeare by the middle of the 19th century?
How did the public view Shakespeare by the middle of the 19th century?
What do the opponents of Shakespeare argue about the other authorship candidates?
What do the opponents of Shakespeare argue about the other authorship candidates?
Flashcards
Shakespeare Authorship Controversy
Shakespeare Authorship Controversy
The debate surrounding who actually wrote William Shakespeare's works, with some suggesting alternatives like Francis Bacon or Edward de Vere.
Shakespeare's Humble Origins
Shakespeare's Humble Origins
The fact that William Shakespeare was born into a lower social class, which some scholars see as incompatible with his literary genius.
Aristocratic Sensibility
Aristocratic Sensibility
The refined tastes and manners common among the nobility, which some argue Shakespeare lacked.
Breadth of Learning
Breadth of Learning
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Documentary Evidence
Documentary Evidence
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Study Notes
Shakespeare Authorship Controversy
- Shakespeare's authorship has been debated for a long time, although it's not as widely discussed.
- Scholars and literary historians still view the question as controversial.
- Doubts about Shakespeare's authorship emerged in the mid-19th century when he was already globally recognized as a great English writer.
- Critics point to Shakespeare's humble background and lack of clear biographical details, suggesting conflicts with his supposed genius.
- Various alternative authors have been proposed, including Sir Francis Bacon, Edward de Vere, Christopher Marlowe, and William Stanley.
- Opponents argue that these alternative authors, with their background and likely connections were better equipped to produce the body of work associated with Shakespeare, given their education, aristocratism, and awareness of courtly life.
- Many Shakespeare plays and poems clearly reflect profound learning and understanding of Elizabethan and Jacobean court and political realities.
- There is no authentic evidence supporting William Shakespeare as writer.
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Description
Explore the long-standing debates surrounding the authorship of William Shakespeare's works. This quiz delves into the skepticism about his background and the alternative candidates proposed by critics. Test your knowledge on the various theories and figures involved in this literary mystery.
