Is It Essential to Know Shakespeare’s Background for Enjoying His Works?

Understanding the background and history of William Shakespeare can certainly add depth and context to your appreciation of his works. However, is it truly necessary to fully enjoy and understand his plays? The answer may surprise you.

The Debate: Shakespeare and His Identity

There are varying theories regarding Shakespeare's authorship of his plays. Some enthusiasts believe that he was merely a front man for a real author, often suggesting the Earl of Oxford, Francis Bacon, or other potential candidates. However, does this theoretical debate affect a reader's or viewer's enjoyment of Shakespeare's works?

It is argued that these theories do not impact the enjoyment of the plays. Whether Shakespeare is the true author or not, the impact of his writings remains. Thus, the identity of the true author doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the texts. The popularity and sustained appreciation for Shakespeare's works across generations and cultures suggest that his authorship theories do not diminish his legacy.

Studying Shakespeare Without His Background

Even without deep knowledge of Shakespeare's biography, one can still thoroughly appreciate and enjoy his works. Here are some aspects of Shakespeare's life that are widely known and documented:

He had a decent-to-good grammar school education, enabling him to read, write, and learn verse composition. At 17, he married Anne Hathaway, a townswoman, with whom he eventually had three children. He moved to London around age 20, spending most of his adult life performing and writing for the theater. Shakespeare learned stagecraft and wrote sonnets, indicating a diverse range of skills and experiences.

Despite the lack of comprehensive historical records, the documentation of these basic facts provides a solid foundation for understanding his life and works. His life and career in the theater were well-documented, as evidenced by the support of fellow actors who printed his collected works posthumously (the First Folio).

The Essence of Shakespeare the Playwright

The most crucial aspect of Shakespeare's career is that he learned his craft not through formal university education but through hands-on experience. He observed and adapted to audience preferences by honing his skills in the theater.

This practical approach to playwriting is a significant aspect of his genius. His plays are a reflection of his deep understanding of human nature, emotional depth, and storytelling techniques, all honed through years of practice and adaptation.

Conclusion

While it is undoubtedly enriching to know the background and history of Shakespeare, it is not a prerequisite for enjoying and understanding his works. The plays' enduring popularity and their timeless relevance speak to their inherent qualities, which transcend knowledge of their author. Whether Shakespeare wrote them or not, his plays continue to captivate audiences and inspire thinkers and writers around the world.

Therefore, let the debate about Shakespeare's identity continue, but focus on the unparalleled artistry and enduring impact of his works. Enjoy the plays for what they are: masterpieces of human expression that have stood the test of time.