NAME: OMOTAYO

CHRISTOPHER PELUMI

MATRIC NO: 228755

DEPARTMENT: ENGLISH &

LITERATURE

COURSE: ENG 234

(SHAKESPEARE AND HIS
CONTEMPORARIES)

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 Summary of the article, “Shakespeare’s Plays
Reflect the Cultural and Social Conditions of the
Elizabethan Age” by Dr. R.C. Vasuki

This study provides a comprehensive glimpse into the life and times of William
Shakespeare, the illustrious playwright who left an indelible mark on literature. It takes
us on a journey through the cultural and historical tapestry of Shakespeare's era, the
Elizabethan period, which was characterized by a flourishing of arts and innovation.
During this period, Shakespeare's genius flourished, and his works became a reflection
of the societal environment.

Shakespeare's profound understanding of human nature and his ability to capture

universal themes, such as love, power, and ambition, were not merely products of his
time but have transcended it. His creations, like the iconic characters Hamlet and Juliet,
continue to resonate with people across generations. The summary delves deeper into
the societal influences that molded Shakespeare's writing, shedding light on how the
vibrant theatrical environment of London contributed to the development of his craft.

The flourishing theaters of the time, such as the Globe Theatre, served as platforms for
his timeless plays, connecting him intimately with audiences. This intimate connection
between playwright and audience was a unique feature of the Elizabethan era, and it
allowed Shakespeare to craft narratives that could evoke a wide range of emotions and
insights in his viewers.

Additionally, the Renaissance spirit of intellectual exploration during this period

fostered the emergence of new ideas and artistic expressions, providing Shakespeare
with a rich intellectual backdrop. It was a time of profound intellectual and artistic
ferment, and Shakespeare's works were imbued with the intellectual curiosity and
creative energy of his age.

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In summary, this study not only highlights the cultural and historical dimensions of
Shakespeare's time but also emphasizes his keen awareness of human nature, which
converged to produce literary masterpieces that remain timeless and influential.
Shakespeare's ability to capture the essence of the human experience ensures that his
works continue to be cherished and studied by generations of readers and theatergoers,
making him an enduring figure in the annals of literature.

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 Summary of the article, “An Introduction to
Shakespeare” by H.N. MacCracken and F.E
Pierce and W.H Durham.
William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright and poet, was born in
Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564. He was the son of John Shakespeare, a
successful glover and local official, and Mary Arden, the daughter of a prosperous
farmer. This background provided him with a solid foundation for his future endeavors.

Shakespeare's education is a subject of some debate, but he likely attended the local
grammar school, where he would have received a classical education in Latin and
possibly Greek. This education would have a profound impact on his later writing, as his
works are steeped in classical allusions and literary references.

In 1582, at the age of 18, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, a woman eight years his
senior. This union led to the birth of their three children: Susanna and twins Judith and
Hamnet. His early marriage and family life, while somewhat unconventional for the
time, did not deter his pursuit of a career in the theater.

One intriguing tradition concerning Shakespeare's youth involves deer stealing. Legend
has it that he was involved in poaching deer from the estates of local nobility. While this
may have been a youthful escapade, it showcases his early encounters with the
aristocracy, which would later influence his writing.

Shakespeare's early life in London was marked by a desire to establish himself as a

playwright and actor. He joined a theater company, Lord Chamberlain's Men, which
later became the famous King's Men, and quickly rose to prominence in the London
theater scene.

During his time in London, Shakespeare became associated with the Mountjoy family,
specifically Mary Mountjoy, who served as a motherly figure to him. This relationship
hints at the depth of his social connections in the city.

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Shakespeare's income and business transactions were a testament to his success. He not
only earned money through his acting and writing but also invested in real estate. His
astute financial decisions allowed him to secure a comfortable lifestyle.

Life in London offered Shakespeare access to a vibrant artistic and intellectual

community. He collaborated with other playwrights and poets, and his works were
performed at prestigious theaters like the Globe. His popularity soared, making him a
prominent figure in Elizabethan England.

Later in life, Shakespeare returned to Stratford and became involved in local affairs. He
owned property and lived a relatively quiet life compared to his bustling London years.

Shakespeare's legacy is not confined to his works alone. His portraits, tomb, and
descendants continue to be subjects of interest and study. His timeless plays, poems,
and enduring influence on literature ensure that his memory lives on, making him an
iconic figure in the world of arts and culture.

In summary, William Shakespeare's life was marked by his humble beginnings, his
pursuit of education and the arts, his unconventional marriage, his early experiences
with the aristocracy, and his remarkable career in London's theater scene. His financial
success, literary achievements, and enduring legacy make him an enduring symbol of
English literature and cultural heritage.

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 William Shakespeare: A Timeless Legacy
William Shakespeare, a name synonymous with literary brilliance, was born in 1564 in
Stratford-upon-Avon, England, into the family of John Shakespeare, a prosperous
glover, and Mary Arden, the daughter of a farmer. Little did anyone know that this
humble beginning would be the origin of one of the most influential figures in world
literature.

Shakespeare's education, likely at the local grammar school, bestowed upon him a solid
foundation in Latin and possibly Greek, enabling him to infuse his works with classical
allusions and literary depth. At 18, he married Anne Hathaway, setting in motion a life
of both personal and creative exploration. Their unconventional age gap and early
family life did not deter him from pursuing a career in the theater.

The legend of Shakespeare's involvement in deer stealing during his youth, poaching
deer from local estates, speaks to his early encounters with the aristocracy. These
encounters would later find expression in his works, as he skillfully portrayed the
complexities of human nature, power, and ambition.

London became the stage for Shakespeare's ascent to literary stardom. Joining the Lord
Chamberlain's Men and later the King's Men, he became a prominent figure in the city's
theater scene. The Globe Theatre, one of the flourishing theaters of the era, showcased
his timeless plays, forging an intimate connection with audiences.

In London, Shakespeare's association with the Mountjoy family, particularly Mary

Mountjoy, hinted at his extensive social network and highlighted his charm and
charisma.

His income and astute business transactions not only secured his financial stability but
also afforded him the comforts of life in a city teeming with artistic and intellectual
innovation. Collaborations with other playwrights and poets enriched his creative
journey, as his works found their way into prestigious venues and the hearts of countless
admirers.

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The life and times of William Shakespeare were a confluence of cultural richness,
historical significance, and a genius that transcended his era. His works, a mirror to the
society and intellect of his time, have become an eternal source of inspiration, enriching
the world's literary and artistic tapestry.