What did Ben Jonson mean when he wrote, "He [Shakespeare] was not of an age, but for all time"? Explain
Shakespeare's works are relevant for people of many different times, not just for the people who lived when he did.
When Ben Jonson wrote, "He was not of an age, but for all time," he was expressing his belief that William Shakespeare's works had a timeless quality that would transcend the specific era in which he lived and continue to be relevant and admired by future generations.
To understand the meaning behind this statement, it is helpful to have some background knowledge on the context and significance of Shakespeare and Jonson in Elizabethan literature.
During the early 17th century in England, William Shakespeare and Ben Jonson were two prominent playwrights competing for recognition and success. While both were esteemed in their own right, Jonson wanted to convey that Shakespeare's writings had a universal appeal that went beyond the transient trends and tastes of their contemporary audience.
Jonson's statement suggests that Shakespeare's literary genius surpassed the limitations of time and cultural boundaries. He believed that Shakespeare's plays and poems were not merely a product of their era but contained deep insights into human nature and timeless themes that would resonate with people across different time periods and cultures.
To fully appreciate the meaning of this statement, it is crucial to explore Shakespeare's works in detail. Reading plays such as "Hamlet," "Macbeth," or "Romeo and Juliet," as well as diving into his sonnets, can unveil the depth and multi-layered nature of his writing. Shakespeare's themes, characters, and language continue to captivate readers and theatergoers around the world, making his works stand the test of time.
So, in summary, when Ben Jonson wrote, "He was not of an age, but for all time," he meant that Shakespeare's literary genius was not confined to the specific era in which he lived but would continue to be appreciated and relevant for generations to come. To truly understand and appreciate this statement, it is important to explore Shakespeare's works and recognize their universal themes and timeless qualities.