The Impact of Plutarch’s Lives on Shakespeare’s Roman Plays

Introduction

William Shakespeare is a towering figure in the literary canon, renowned for his explorations of human nature, societies, and the roles of heroic figures. Among his rich tapestry of works, the Roman plays stand out as influenced by a myriad of historical and literary sources, one of which has been consistently highlighted by scholars: Plutarch’s Lives. This essay will delve into how and why Plutarch’s biographies of prominent figures from ancient Rome influenced Shakespeare’s creative process, particularly in his Roman plays.

Absence of Direct Evidence

There is no definitive proof that Shakespeare directly read Plutarch’s Lives. The Bard was not part of the "University Wits," a small circle of playwrights who were well-educated and often associated with university study. However, given his extensive knowledge of classical literature, it is highly probable that he was indirectly exposed to works like Plutarch’s Lives through the cultural milieu of his time. Accounts suggest that he was a sponge for any and all stories he encountered, making it plausible that he knew about Plutarch’s Roman biographies at least secondhand.

Direct Influence in Shakespeare’s Works

One of the most striking examples of Plutarch’s influence in Shakespeare’s work is his use of Plutarch’s biographies for Julius Caesar and Antony and Cleopatra. These plays are deeply intertwined with the political and personal stories of Roman history, and Plutarch’s translation, which was published in 1579, likely played a significant role in shaping the narrative structures and thematic elements of these plays.

Shakespeare’s Creative Interpretation

What makes Plutarch’s influence on Shakespeare particularly noteworthy is not merely the raw material he drew from, but how he transmuted it for his own artistic purposes. Shakespeare’s Roman plays often emphasize themes of virtue, power, and the consequences of ambition. He took the biographical details provided by Plutarch and recontextualized them to create universality in his characters and plots. This reimagining reflects Shakespeare’s genius in making historical figures and events relatable to his contemporary audience.

Comparison with Ben Jonson

A point of comparison with other writers of the time, such as Ben Jonson, further highlights Shakespeare’s unique approach. While Jonson was known to draw upon Plutarch’s Lives for his own works, the manner in which he incorporated this material was different from Shakespeare’s. Jonson often presented these figures in a more didactic and moralistic light, which contrasts with Shakespeare’s more dynamic and psychologically nuanced portrayal.

Conclusion

Plutarch’s Lives undoubtedly had a profound impact on Shakespeare’s creative output, especially in his Roman plays. Whether through direct or indirect exposure, the Bard absorbed the biographical details and thematic insights provided by Plutarch, and through his genius, he transformed these into plays that remain both historically grounded and universally resonant. This study serves as a testament to the enduring influence of classical literature on Western drama and the timeless quality of Shakespeare’s work.