William Shakespeare’s Favorite Lines: A Deep Dive into His Plays

While we have no definitive knowledge of which lines were William Shakespeare's personal favorites from his plays, the popularity of his works has endured for centuries. Despite not remembering his older works, Shakespeare left behind a rich literary legacy that continues to captivate audiences and scholars alike. This article explores some of the most beloved lines from his plays that might have resonated with him. Additionally, we examine why these lines might have been meaningful to the Bard, providing insights into the man behind the timeless verse.

The Mystery of Shakespeare’s Favorite Lines

William Shakespeare, the renowned Elizabethan playwright and poet, is celebrated for penning some of the most influential and enduring works in the English language. Despite his prolific output, there is no documented evidence to suggest which specific lines or passages were his personal favorites. Writers often focus on their current projects, and it's unlikely that Shakespeare, being a forward-looking individual, would have revisited his older works with the same level of fondness.

Beyond the Plays: A Focus on Shakespeare's Sonnets

Shakespeare's interest in his plays was not necessarily absent, but it appears that he had a greater affinity for his sonnets. During his lifetime, poetry was considered more prestigious and intellectually stimulating than plays. This is evident in his efforts to publish his sonnets, which required the financial support of a man known as "Mr W H." This detail speaks to the higher status that poetry held in the Elizabethan era, when sonnets were highly esteemed and sought after by scholarly circles.

Why Poetry May Have Been More Than Just a Project

Shakespeare’s dedication to publishing his sonnets suggests a deeper investment in the artistic form of poetry. Sonnets allowed him to explore more personal and emotional themes, which may have resonated more with him than the dramatic and often political themes of his plays. The sonnets also allowed him to showcase his lyrical prowess and philosophical insights, providing a more intimate connection with his audience.

Exploring Favorite Lines from Shakespeare’s Plays

While we may never know which lines were Shakespeare's favorites, we can still appreciate the significance and impact of his most memorable verses. Let's delve into some of the most beloved lines from his plays and explore why they might have been meaningful to the Bard himself.

1. Hamlet

"To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles
And by opposing end them. ..."

This famous soliloquy from Act III, Scene 1 of Hamlet is one of the most quoted passages in all of Shakespeare's works. It captures the weight of existentialism and the human struggle with life's inherent challenges. Shakespeare likely appreciated the profound emotional and philosophical depth of this passage, as it encapsulates the human dilemma in a way that is universal and timeless.

2. Macbeth

"So foul and fair a day I have not seen.
Sound the terminal horns! "
(Act V, Scene 3)

This chilling line from Macbeth embodies the dark and foreboding atmosphere of the play. Shakespeare's skill in creating a sense of impending doom and the supernatural is evident in this line, which might have been appreciated by the Bard for its ability to captivate and unsettle audiences. The juxtaposition of "foul and fair" adds to the ominous tone, making it a hauntingly memorable moment in the play.

3. Romeo and Juliet

"But soft, what light through yonder window breaks?
It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!
Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon,
Who is already sick and pale with grief…"
(Act II, Scene II)

Romantic and poetic, this soliloquy from Act II, Scene II of Romeo and Juliet is a celebration of love and beauty. Shakespeare's ability to create vivid imagery and express intense emotions through elegant language is traits that he likely cherished. This line, full of passion and imagination, might have resonated deeply with the Bard himself, as it reflects his own poetic ambitions and the power of love in his plays.

4. A Midsummer Night’s Dream

"Lord and lady, come away;
Our revels now are ended. These our actors,
As I foretold you, were all spirits and are melted into air, into thin air:
And we the cropyards of the world." (Act V, Scene I)

This final act of A Midsummer Night’s Dream serves as a perfect conclusion to the play's enchanting and romantic world. Shakespeare’s use of imagery and philosophy in this passage might have appealed to him for its ability to bring closure and provide a sense of the magical and the ephemeral. It symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the beauty of the world of imagination and dreams.

Why Shakespeare Loved These Lines

The lines we've explored here not only capture the essence of his plays but also reflect aspects of Shakespeare's personality and artistic sensibilities. His love for the human condition, the power of imagination, and the exploration of themes like love, morality, and the supernatural were central to his work. The lines we've highlighted are not just memorable; they also encapsulate the essence of his genius.

Conclusion

While we can only speculate about Shakespeare's favorite lines, the enduring popularity of his works suggests that many of his lines have struck a chord with audiences throughout the centuries. Whether it was through the profound existential musings of Hamlet, the dark and foreboding imagery of Macbeth, the passionate love declarations in Romeo and Juliet, or the whimsical magical world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare’s ability to evoke emotion and explore the human experience is what makes his words so timeless.

For more insights into the works of Shakespeare and his lasting legacy, visit the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust or the British Library's Shakespeare Collection.