The Intriguing Connection: Why Italy Was Shakespeare’s Inspiration

Nearly all of Shakespeare's plays were inspired by pre-existing stories or historical events. When we delve into the sources of these plays, a fascinating pattern emerges, especially when it comes to those set in Italy. This article will explore why Italy was such a significant source of inspiration for the Bard, and how his works reflect this influence.

Italian Origins: The Principal Influence

Many of Shakespeare's plays are rooted in Italian stories and history. Consider the following:

Romeo and Juliet - Based on a tale by Luigi da Porto, later adapted by Matteo Bandello. Julius Caesar and Antony and Cleopatra - Drawn from Roman history. Coriolanus - Also based on Roman history. The Merchant of Venice - Stemming from the medieval Italian novella Il Pecorone by Giovanni Florentino.

While these and other well-known plays are drawn from Italian sources, a few exceptions exist, like Measure for Measure and Two Gentlemen of Verona. Some argue that the setting for The Seven Books of the Diana may have been swapped from Spain to Italy for political reasons, as England had a strained relationship with Spain during that period.

The Playwright's Allure for Italian Sources

Several factors explain Shakespeare's fascination with Italian stories and settings:

Poetic Legacy and Italian Authors

Shakespeare, like many of his contemporaries, adapted stories from Italian authors, particularly Giovanni Boccaccio. Italian cities, known for their passionate and vibrant cultures, became the perfect backdrop for his plays. One can still visit sites such as Verona’s famous "Juliet’s Balcony," which has become a tourist attraction.

Climate and Setting

The climate of the time, known as the Little Ice Age, made British winters extremely harsh. The Thames, for example, froze solid for several winters in a row. As a result, settings like Italian or Mediterranean cities offered a stark contrast and a sense of exotic allure. Readers and audiences found such settings desirable and intriguing.

Global Settings in Shakespeare's Works

While it is true that some of Shakespeare's plays are set in Italy, it is often overstated that his works are predominantly Italian. Of the known plays, only about 16% are set in Italy. The rest explore various other lands and settings, each offering a unique cultural and narrative context:

The Two Gentlemen of Verona and The Taming of the Shrew have settings that are more ambiguous. Winter's Tale is set in a range of locations, reflecting the Bard's expansive storytelling.

For instance, plays like Romeo and Juliet and The Merchant of Venice serve as cultural and historical touchstones, while others, such as Hamlet and King Lear, delve into classical and British contexts. The global scope of Shakespeare's works underscores his ability to draw from various sources to craft rich and diverse narratives.

Understanding the significance of Italian influences in Shakespeare’s works not only highlights the Bard's mastery but also provides insight into the social, cultural, and political contexts of his time. By exploring these sources, we can better appreciate the richness and depth of Shakespeare's genius.