Shakespeare and His Invention of Language: Fact or Fiction?

Shakespeare, the legendary playwright and poet, is celebrated for his incredible command over the English language, and many wonder if he also created his own words. This question has been a subject of debate, with scholars and enthusiasts exploring the rich linguistic contributions of the Bard.

Was Shakespeare Responsible for Creating New Words?

The question of whether Shakespeare invented his own words is an intriguing one, and the answer is complex. Historians have found that the early modern period from which Shakespeare emerged was a time of great linguistic flux, as the English language was evolving rapidly. Thus, it is quite plausible that Shakespeare created new words or phrases, even though we cannot be certain of the exact number.

Empirical Evidence

According to linguistic research, there are approximately 1,700 English words where the earliest known usage can be traced to a work attributed to William Shakespeare. This could suggest that he indeed had a hand in inventing these words, although it is difficult to say exactly how many were truly his creation.

Words That Shakespeare Created or Popularized

While we cannot place a precise figure on how many new words Shakespeare might have invented, it is certain that he contributed significantly to the English language. Here are a few examples:

Bandit – Henry VI Part 2, 1594 Critic – Love’s Labour Lost, 1598 Dauntless – Henry VI Part 3, 1616 Dwindle – Henry IV Part 1, 1598 Elbow (as a verb) – King Lear, 1608 Green-Eyed (to describe jealousy) – The Merchant of Venice, 1600 Lackluster – As You Like It, 1616 Lonely – Coriolanus, 1616 Skim-milk – Henry IV Part 1, 1598 Swagger – Midsummer Night's Dream, 1600

One particularly notable prefix that Shakespeare often used is the word un-, which he leveraged to create or redefine more than 300 words. Here are a few examples:

Unaware – Venus and Adonis, 1593 Uncomfortable

Impact and Legacy

Shakespeare's influence on the English language cannot be overstated. Many of the phrases and words he used have become part of the everyday lexicon, and it is fascinating to see how his language continues to shape our modern English. The very idea that such a prominent figure might have been a coiner of new words is a testament to the dynamic nature of language.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is possible that Shakespeare invented his own words, the exact number remains uncertain. His contributions to the English language, however, are undeniable. The rich vocabulary and innovative uses of language in his plays and sonnets have left an indelible mark on the English language, making him a true linguistic giant in the annals of literary history.