William Shakespeare: A Critical Study

by Georg Brandes

"William Shakespeare: A Critical Study" by Georg Brandes is a critical work written in the early 20th century. This text delves into the complexities of Shakespeare's life, his historical context, and literary contributions, exploring his profound influence on literature and drama. Brandes' study seeks to illuminate the enigmatic life of Shakespeare, particularly the obscurities surrounding his biography, and the evolution of his artistic genius through his works. At the start of the work, Brandes sets the scene by contrasting Shakespeare’s significance with that of his contemporaries, such as Michael Angelo and Cervantes, emphasizing the lasting impact of Shakespeare’s body of work even centuries after its creation. He outlines the challenges in reconstructing Shakespeare's biography, citing a lack of contemporary documentation and personal letters. The opening also introduces key aspects of Shakespeare's origins, including his upbringing in Stratford-on-Avon and the cultural influences that likely shaped his literary output. Brandes’ examination promises a detailed exploration of Shakespeare's evolution as an artist and the political and social currents of England during his time.