Subject
Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 -- Authorship Books
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John Fiske
A Century of Science, and Other Essays
"A Century of Science and Other Essays" by John Fiske is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. This work reflects on significant scientific discoveries and ideas that shaped modern thought, particularly focusing on evolution and the progress of various scientific fields over the past century. Fiske aims to illustrate the rapid advancements and methodologies in science, advocating for the importance of systematic inquiry. The opening of the collection sets the stage by discussing the revolutionary discovery of oxygen by Dr. Priestley and traces the dramatic evolution of scientific understanding from the antiquated beliefs of alchemy to the foundational principles of modern chemistry. Fiske elaborates on how scientific advancements, particularly in fields such as chemistry and geology, signify a transformative leap in human knowledge. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of various scientific disciplines and foreshadows the larger discussions on evolution and the development of human society that will follow in the subsequent essays in the book.
William Spalding
A Letter on Shakspere's Authorship of The Two Noble Kinsmen and on the characteristics of Shakspere's style and the secret of his supremacy
"A Letter on Shakspere's Authorship of The Two Noble Kinsmen" by William Spalding is a critical essay written in the early 19th century. The work delves into the debate on the authorship of the play "The Two Noble Kinsmen," often attributed to both William Shakespeare and John Fletcher. Spalding examines both external historical evidence and the internal stylistic characteristics of the play, ultimately seeking to affirm Shakespeare's involvement in its creation. The opening of the essay sets the stage for a thorough investigation, addressing the uncertainties surrounding the attribution of "The Two Noble Kinsmen" to Shakespeare. Spalding notes the importance of external evidence of authorship, acknowledging that some plays historically associated with Shakespeare may not belong to him, while others may be left out. He emphasizes the significance of the play being publicly credited to both Shakespeare and Fletcher upon its publication, despite showing signs of a distinct Shakespearean touch in language and style. Moreover, he reflects on the peculiarities of Shakespeare's literary voice in comparison to Fletcher's, establishing a framework that suggests an analytical, comparative approach to understanding the authorship debate.
Scott F. (Scott Frederick) Surtees
William Shakespere, of Stratford-on-Avon His Epitaph Unearthed, and the Author of the Plays run to Ground
"William Shakespere, of Stratford-on-Avon" by Scott F. Surtees is a detailed examination of the life and times of William Shakespeare, presented as a biography and critical inquiry written in the late 19th century. This book delves into various aspects of Shakespeare's life, including his origins, marriage, and the societal context that led to numerous theories questioning the authorship of the plays attributed to him. Surtees challenges the conventional narrative surrounding Shakespeare's literary contributions and explores alternative authorship theories, focusing particularly on the notion that the true author may have been Sir Anthony Sherley. In the book, Surtees explores Shakespeare's early life in Stratford-on-Avon, discussing the various relics associated with him, such as supposed personal items and his epitaph. He examines the circumstances surrounding Shakespeare's marriage to Anne Hathaway and the cultural landscape of Elizabethan England, aiming to shed light on the playwright's character and reliability. Furthermore, Surtees presents a series of conjectures and historical anecdotes that question the authenticity of the Shakespearean works, suggesting that different individuals like Sherley may have played a significant role in their creation. Through meticulous analysis and argumentation, Surtees presents a provocative perspective that invites readers to reconsider the legacy of one of literature's most celebrated figures.
Jesse Johnson
Testimony of the Sonnets as to the Authorship of the Shakespearean Plays and Poems
"Testimony of the Sonnets as to the Authorship of the Shakespearean Plays and Poems" by Jesse Johnson is a critical examination written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the authorship of the Shakespearean Sonnets, arguing that they reveal insights about their author that contradict the established belief that William Shakespeare penned them. Johnson posits that the Sonnets were likely written to Shakespeare by another, older poet, whose emotional and personal experiences profoundly differ from those of the young playwright typically associated with them. The opening of the text introduces the idea that the Sonnets reflect intense emotions that could not pertain to Shakespeare's life at the time of their writing, given his relatively young age and burgeoning success. Johnson proposes an alternative interpretation, suggesting that the Sonnets express the feelings of a man much older, possibly well past middle age, addressing a younger friend or patron. He emphasizes a literal reading of the texts, contending that their content hints at experiences and sentiments inconsistent with Shakespeare's known biography, thus setting the stage for his argument against Shakespeare's authorship of the Sonnets within the broader context of the Shakespearean plays.
Francis Asbury Smith
The Critics Versus Shakspere A Brief for the Defendant
"The Critics Versus Shakspere" by Francis Asbury Smith is a literary critique written in the early 20th century. This work serves as a defense of William Shakespeare against a variety of critics who question his originality and merit. Smith argues against assertions that Shakespeare simply imitated his contemporaries, presenting historical and critical evidence to support the claim of Shakespeare’s unique genius in the realm of English literature. The opening of the text establishes a context for an ongoing debate about Shakespeare's status among writers. Smith references past critics such as Ben Jonson, Voltaire, and Samuel Johnson, who have scrutinized Shakespeare’s work. He presents a detailed account of claims made against Shakespeare, such as accusations of his plays being inferior compared to those of contemporaries and his supposed lack of originality. Smith counters these critiques by highlighting how, despite numerous attempts to diminish his reputation, the broader literary consensus remains in favor of Shakespeare’s brilliance, as evidenced by his enduring popularity and the admiration he garners from later scholars and writers.
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