Subject
Dramatists, English -- Early modern, 1500-1700 -- Biography Books
Best books
Nathan Drake
Shakspeare and His Times [Vol. 1 of 2] Including the Biography of the Poet; criticisms on his genius and writings; a new chronology of his plays; a disquisition on the on the object of his sonnets; and a history of the manners, customs, and amusements, superstitions, poetry, and elegant literature of his age
"Shakspeare and His Times [Vol. 1 of 2]" by Nathan Drake is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and environment of William Shakespeare, situating him within the cultural, social, and literary context of his time. The focus is not only on Shakespeare's biography but also on the customs, superstitions, and artistic life of his era, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the influences that shaped his works. The opening of the volume provides an eloquent preface that succinctly defines the author's intent. Nathan Drake emphasizes the historical significance of Shakespeare and the absence of a thorough examination of his times from his perspective. He lights upon the structure of the exploration, planned in three distinct parts: "Shakspeare in Stratford," reflecting on the poet's youth; "Shakspeare in London," detailing his rise as a playwright; and "Shakspeare in Retirement," which covers his later years. The introduction establishes a narrative framework, inviting readers to consider how these diverse contexts impact their understanding of Shakespeare not merely as a playwright but as a figure deeply embedded in the social fabric of his time.
Nathan Drake
Shakspeare and His Times [Vol. 2 of 2] Including the Biography of the Poet; criticisms on his genius and writings; a new chronology of his plays; a disquisition on the on the object of his sonnets; and a history of the manners, customs, and amusements, superstitions, poetry, and elegant literature of his age
"Shakspeare and His Times [Vol. 2 of 2]" by Nathan Drake is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The volume explores the life and works of William Shakespeare, including his biography, an analysis of his plays and sonnets, and a look at the cultural, social, and literary contexts of his time. The book offers insights into Shakespeare's relationships, particularly with Lord Southampton, who significantly influenced his early career. The opening of the book delves into Shakespeare's relationship with Lord Southampton, highlighting the young nobleman's patronage and support for Shakespeare's early works, notably "Venus and Adonis" and "The Rape of Lucrece." Drake provides a detailed biographical sketch of Southampton, describing his education, military accomplishments, and tumultuous political life, illustrating how their connection was rooted in both admiration and obligation. The text sets the framework for understanding the complexities of Shakespeare's career, emphasizing the importance of patronage in the Elizabethan era.
William Allan Neilson
The Facts About Shakespeare
"The Facts About Shakespeare" by William Allan Neilson and Ashley Horace Thorndike is a scholarly account written in the early 20th century. This publication aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the life and times of William Shakespeare, exploring his cultural context, biography, and the influences that shaped his works. The authors delve into topics such as Shakespeare's environment in Elizabethan England, his education, and the significant events that marked his life and career. The beginning of this work sets the stage by outlining the sociopolitical and cultural landscape of Shakespeare's England. It describes the significant transformations occurring during his lifetime, including shifts in religion, commerce, and daily living, which contributed to the vibrant atmosphere that influenced Shakespeare's writing. The authors touch upon the broader implications of these changes, such as the rise of individualism and national identity, and introduce the reader to key themes that will shape the discussions in subsequent chapters. They establish that Shakespeare's unique position in society allowed him to observe and reflect the complexities of human nature and societal change in his plays.
Sidney Lee
A Life of William Shakespeare with portraits and facsimiles
"A Life of William Shakespeare" by Sir Sidney Lee is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This comprehensive biography aims to provide a clear and practical narrative of the renowned playwright’s life, detailing the facts surrounding his career, achievements, and reputation, while steering clear of purely aesthetic criticism. The opening of the work establishes the author’s objective to fill a perceived gap in Shakespearean literature by presenting a well-organized summary of verifiable information regarding the dramatist’s life. Lee emphasizes that the book is based on extensive research and efforts to clear up ambiguities related to Shakespeare's background, personal history, and literary endeavors. He outlines what readers can expect in terms of new insights into key aspects of Shakespeare's life, including his family background, education, and relationships, as well as discussions about his financial affairs and his connections with notable contemporaries.
Victor Hugo
William Shakespeare
"William Shakespeare" by Victor Hugo is a work of literary criticism written in 1864 during his thirteenth year of exile. Originally intended as an introduction to his son's Shakespeare translations, it expanded into a sweeping examination of history's greatest literary geniuses—from Homer and Dante to Cervantes and Shakespeare himself. Hugo's passionate, idiosyncratic study became more self-revelation than literary analysis, prompting French critics to suggest he should have titled it "Myself." The work includes Hugo's influential argument for a "vast public literary domain."
Charles Mills Gayley
Francis Beaumont: Dramatist A Portrait, with Some Account of His Circle, Elizabethan and Jacobean, And of His Association with John Fletcher
"Francis Beaumont: Dramatist" by Charles Mills Gayley is a scholarly account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life, works, and influence of the esteemed Elizabethan dramatist Francis Beaumont, alongside his close collaborator John Fletcher. The author seeks to illuminate Beaumont's contributions to drama in relation to his contemporaries, particularly Shakespeare, while also detailing his historical context and personal connections. At the start of this comprehensive study, Gayley introduces Beaumont as a significant figure in the Elizabethan and Jacobean drama scene, often overshadowed by Shakespeare. Gayley emphasizes the intertwined careers of Beaumont and Fletcher, dubbing them the "twin literary heroes" of their time, and articulates his goal to distinctly portray Beaumont's unique artistic personality. The opening chapters highlight Beaumont's lineage, early life, and familial ties, establishing the foundation for understanding how his background and social connections shaped his literary endeavors. Additionally, Gayley lays the groundwork for Beaumont's eventual collaboration with Fletcher, underscoring the significance of their joint contributions to the theatrical landscape of their era.
Frank Harris
The Man Shakespeare and His Tragic Life Story
"The Man Shakespeare and His Tragic Life Story" by Frank Harris is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the life and character of William Shakespeare, asserting that the playwright's complex personality and tragic experiences are intertwined with his literary creations. Harris aims to present a nuanced portrayal of Shakespeare, arguing that the playwright painted himself multiple times through his characters across different stages of his life. The opening of the text reveals Harris's intention to provide an introspective analysis of Shakespeare's works and how they reflect his own life, passions, and struggles. Harris mentions the various interpretations and critiques Shakespeare has faced throughout the centuries, noting that many have failed to grasp the true essence of the man behind the plays. He highlights his plan to explore the Shakespearean characters of Hamlet, Macbeth, and others, suggesting that these figures represent different aspects of Shakespeare's own experiences. Ultimately, he seeks to elucidate Shakespeare's heroic and tragic dimensions, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of his life and work in understanding the human condition.
Arthur Acheson
Shakespeare's Lost Years in London, 1586-1592
"Shakespeare's Lost Years in London, 1586-1592" by Arthur Acheson is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The work seeks to illuminate a poorly documented period in William Shakespeare's life, particularly focusing on the years leading up to his acclaimed literary success. Acheson explores the connections between Shakespeare, key figures such as the Earl of Southampton, and the theatrical landscape of London during this transformative time. The opening of the book sets the stage by emphasizing the historical gap that exists regarding Shakespeare's early years in London. Acheson discusses the lack of cohesive historical accounts connecting the playwright's work to the vibrant social and political atmosphere of late 16th-century England. He presents a narrative filled with speculation and evidence that aims to reconstruct Shakespeare's relationships with theatre companies and influential patrons, notably suggesting that the Earl of Southampton played a significant role in fostering Shakespeare's career. Acheson also hints at the evolving nature of Shakespeare's plays during this span, indicating a shift from lighter comedies to more serious themes as he matured as a writer.
Frederick Gard Fleay
A Chronicle History of the Life and Work of William Shakespeare Player, Poet, and Playmaker
"A Chronicle History of the Life and Work of William Shakespeare" by Frederick Gard Fleay is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the life and career of the iconic playwright William Shakespeare, examining his public and personal connections with other poets and dramatists of his time. Fleay not only recounts Shakespeare's biographical details but also analyzes the significant influence he had on English literature. The opening of the text sets the tone for a comprehensive examination of Shakespeare's career, emphasizing the importance of understanding his interactions with other figures in the theatrical community. Fleay critiques previous biographers for focusing excessively on trivial aspects of Shakespeare's personal life and instead aims to highlight the public dimensions of his career, such as the nature of the acting companies he was part of and the chronological order of his plays. The thorough introduction serves as a foundation for the detailed exploration of Shakespeare's life and work that unfolds in the subsequent sections of the book.
François Guizot
Shakspeare and His Times
"Shakspeare and His Times" by François Guizot is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work delves into the life and works of William Shakespeare, exploring the context of his era and the evolution of dramatic art, particularly in England. Guizot's analysis not only highlights Shakespeare's genius but also examines the cultural and social dynamics that shaped his writing and popularity. The opening portion of the book begins with an introduction that outlines the evolution of Shakespeare's reputation, contrasting past perceptions with contemporary views that fully acknowledge his genius. François Guizot discusses the nature of dramatic poetry, asserting its roots in popular culture and the emotional connection it fosters among audiences. He emphasizes the importance of societal conditions during the Elizabethan era, following the turmoil of previous political strife, which fostered an appreciation for the arts. Guizot ultimately portrays Shakespeare as a product of his time, examining how his works responded to and influenced society, while also addressing the challenges of translating his rich English expressions into other languages.
Walter Alexander Raleigh
Shakespeare
"Shakespeare" by Sir Walter Alexander Raleigh is a historical literary study written in the early 20th century. The book examines the life, character, and enduring influence of William Shakespeare, reflecting on how his works have been interpreted and revered across different eras. Raleigh discusses both Shakespeare’s literary achievements and his position in English cultural history, making this work suitable for readers interested in literary criticism or the legacy of major writers. The opening of the book focuses on the challenges each era faces in appreciating and understanding Shakespeare. The author describes how contemporaries saw Shakespeare primarily as a successful playwright and actor rather than a genius, and how his elevated status grew after his death, particularly following the publication of the first folio. Raleigh examines the shifting critical attitudes toward Shakespeare, highlighting both exaggerated reverence and the pitfalls of over-analysis. He makes the case that Shakespeare is best understood through his works themselves rather than through biographical details or speculative interpretations, emphasizing the universality, humanity, and creative abundance found in his plays.
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