The Anti-Stratfordian Theories
Shakespeare's works can be described as a source of inquiries and doubts for centuries. Many scholars, even dating back to the seventeenth century, questioned the authorship of the plays that went on to affect the world of literature: the plays of William Shakespeare. Some of those who study literature have a difficult time believing that Shakespeare wrote the plays that made him famous. There are many different theories about who could have written the plays instead of Shakespeare, including alleged authorships by Christopher Marlowe and Queen Elizabeth, but the two more developed theories come with a steady and loyal following. The common nominees are Sir Francis Bacon (the Baconian theory) and Edward de Vere, earl of Oxford (the Oxfordian theory). Though both schools are backed by hard-hitting evidence, that of Edward de Vere has the strongest support. The basis for the Anti-Stratfordian cause is centered on education-or a lack thereof-and class. The belief is that a man born into the type of socio-economic class that William Shakespeare was would have been incapable of writing about the things he does. Shakespeare grew up as a glover's son in a small town with little opportunity for the schooling and experience tha
Shewing their birth and where they did proceed?'" One of the biggest issues taken with Shakespeare's authorship had to do with his upbringing and place in society, and how, because of it, he lacks the knowledge to write about certain subjects. The Oxfordians answer that question by adamantly stating that Edward de Vere is the true author. Many of the plays have scenes which take place within the royal court and "exhibit such a detailed knowledge of court politics and of social practices at the highest echelons that their creator must have had firsthand knowledge of such a milieu" (McDonald, 25). In some of his plays, Shakespeare expresses intimate knowledge of these court practices through characters such as Richard III and Henry V in the noted tragedy and epic plays, respectively. Now, one could argue that since Bacon was of noble blood and high standing, he would have a sufficiently intimate view of the court practices to a degree high enough to write these plays, but de Vere was specifically known for being a praised courtier-poet: someone with access to the customs of the court.
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Approximate Word count = 1350
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)
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