i am doing a school project about william shakespeare.
i am struggling to find out who his influences were .
thanks for your help!
Here are several really good websites about Shakespeare and his works and his times:
http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/
http://www.shakespeare-online.com/
http://www.bardweb.net/
http://www.enotes.com/william-shakespeare/
http://nfs.sparknotes.com/
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/
thankyou for finding those sites they are very helpful. ive got a few more questions im struggling on but im going to try and find the info myself. is it ok if i ask again for help?
Of course you may ask any time!
Sra
Yes, Rory, you can ask questions any time. Just remember that, the more specific your questions, the better the answers you'll get!
=)
You're welcome! Exploring the influences of William Shakespeare is an intriguing aspect of your school project. To determine who influenced Shakespeare, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Start by examining the works of Shakespeare himself. Look for themes, styles, and plots that are similar to those of other writers. This will give you clues about his literary influences.
2. Study the works of playwrights who preceded Shakespeare. He was heavily influenced by writers such as Christopher Marlowe, Thomas Kyd, and Ben Jonson. Read their plays and compare them to Shakespeare's work to identify similarities.
3. Consider historical events and cultural trends of Shakespeare's time. Research the social, political, and intellectual climate of the Elizabethan era in England. This will help you understand the broader influences on Shakespeare's writing.
4. Look into the ancient and classical works that influenced Shakespeare. He drew extensively from Greek and Roman mythology, literature, and history. Familiarize yourself with works by authors like Ovid, Virgil, and Plutarch.
5. Investigate Shakespeare's sources and adaptations. Many of his plays were based on existing stories, historical accounts, and legends. For instance, his play "Romeo and Juliet" was inspired by Arthur Brooke's poem "The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet."
6. Consult literary critics and scholars. Read books and articles written by experts in Shakespearean studies. They often delve into the subject by examining various influences on the playwright.
Remember, analyzing the influences on Shakespeare requires looking beyond obvious connections and exploring nuanced similarities in themes, writing styles, and cultural contexts. Good luck with your project!