Lecture Notes: William Shakespeare's Life and Legacy

Introduction

• Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Birthplace and childhood home of William Shakespeare.
  • Purchased land and New Place after success in London.
  • Holy Trinity Church: Baptism and burial site.
  • Possible birth and death date: April 23rd (St. George's Day).

Historical Context

• 13th Century Holy Trinity Church
  • Oldest building in Stratford-upon-Avon.
  • Subject to religious changes during England's Reformation.
• Religious Turmoil
  • Protestant and Catholic shifts affected Shakespeare's family.
• Stratford's Demographics
  • A market town with about 2,000 people.
  • Agricultural focus; wool trade prominent.
• The Plague
  • Frequent outbreaks; significant in 1564 when Shakespeare was born.
  • High infant mortality; Shakespeare survived a major outbreak.

Family Background

• John Shakespeare and Mary Arden
  • John: Glove maker, ale taster, mayor.
  • Mary: From a well-established Warwickshire family.
• Influence on Shakespeare
  • John's rise and fall influenced young William.
  • Possible Catholic sympathies and legal troubles (wool dealings).

Education and Early Influences

• King Edward's School
  • Intensive curriculum: Latin, Greek, classics like Ovid.
  • Education in rhetoric, oratory, and argumentation.
• Mystery and Challenges
  • Shakespeare's possible Catholic leanings; fined for non-attendance at Protestant services.

Marriage and Family Life

• Anne Hathaway
  • Married in 1582; Anne was older by 8-9 years.
  • Three children: Susanna, Hamnet (died young), Judith.
  • Little known about their personal life.

Early Career

• "Lost" Years (1585-1592)
  • Little information on Shakespeare's activities.
  • Speculated roles: School teacher, part of traveling players.
  • Influence of the Queen's Men traveling troupe.

London and Theatrical Success

• Arrival in London
  • Dynamic city growing with a burgeoning theatrical scene.
  • Playhouses offered new opportunities.
• The Plague and Adaptation
  • 1592 plague closed theaters; Shakespeare wrote poetry.

Writing and Influence

• Source Materials
  • Used Holinshed's Chronicles for historical plays.
  • Created beloved characters like John Falstaff.
• The Globe Theatre
  • Built in 1599; Shakespeare was a shareholder.
  • The epicenter of his greatest works: Hamlet, Julius Caesar, etc.

Later Years and Legacy

• Final Works and Retirement
  • Last major work: The Tempest.
  • Returned to Stratford; invested in local properties.
• Death and Posthumous Recognition
  • Died April 23, 1616.
  • First Folio published in 1623 ensured the preservation of his works.

Cultural Impact

• Language and Phrases
  • Coined numerous words and phrases still in use today.
  • Influence on literature, arts, and popular culture.
• Enduring Influence
  • Frequent inspiration for music, films, literature.
  • Shakespeare remains a central figure in English culture and beyond.

Conclusion

• Shakespeare's legacy is one of unparalleled influence in literature and language.
• His works and innovations continue to be a vital part of cultural expression and academia.