How the Classics Made Shakespeare

This book reveals the significant influence of classical literature on Shakespeare's works, highlighting his deep engagement with Greek and Roman texts.

In How the Classics Made Shakespeare, renowned literary critic Jonathan Bate explores the profound impact of Greek and Roman literature on the works of William Shakespeare. Contrary to Ben Jonson's quip about Shakespeare's limited classical knowledge, Bate reveals that the playwright was deeply influenced by his education in classical texts. From his grammar school days, Shakespeare was immersed in the rich traditions of Roman literature, history, and rhetoric, which would shape his creative output in remarkable ways.

Bate delves into the specifics of Shakespeare's literary environment, highlighting how London, with its echoes of ancient Rome, provided a backdrop that fostered his engagement with classical themes. The theatrical landscape of his time was steeped in the conventions of classical drama, allowing Shakespeare to draw from a well of inspiration that was both immediate and historical. The author emphasizes the significance of Shakespeare's readings in Ovid, Virgil, and Seneca, illustrating how these texts informed his storytelling techniques and character development.

Ultimately, How the Classics Made Shakespeare presents a compelling argument that the classics were not just a peripheral influence but rather a cornerstone of Shakespeare's artistic identity. Bate's insightful analysis combines stylistic brilliance with accessibility, making this book an essential read for anyone interested in the intersections of classical literature and Elizabethan drama.