Shakespeare Conspiracy: Unraveling the Authorship Question

“All the world’s a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts,
His acts being seven ages.”
― William Shakespeare, As You Like It

Introduction to Shakespeare Conspiracy Theories

Shakespeare conspiracy theories revolve around the idea that William Shakespeare of Stratford-upon-Avon did not actually write the plays and poems attributed to him. Instead, some believe that one or more alternative authors, such as Edward de Vere or Francis Bacon, penned the works. These theories question the traditional narrative of Shakespeare’s authorship and suggest hidden identities behind his celebrated works.

Origins and First Evidence of the Theories

The Shakespeare authorship question dates back to the mid-19th century when doubts about Shakespeare’s identity began to surface. Delia Bacon, an American writer, published The Philosophy of the Plays of Shakespeare Unfolded in 1857, arguing that Shakespeare’s works were written by a group of writers led by Sir Francis Bacon. Although Bacon’s theories lacked substantial evidence, they sparked widespread curiosity and debate.

The first significant challenge to Shakespeare’s authorship emerged in 1785, when James Wilmot, an English scholar, reportedly questioned Shakespeare’s legitimacy as the author. However, Wilmot’s findings were not published until many years later, and his doubts only became widely known after the publication of Delia Bacon’s work. Theories about Shakespeare’s true identity have persisted ever since, with various candidates proposed as the “real” author.

Examples of Shakespeare Conspiracy Theories

1. The Baconian Theory: This theory suggests that Sir Francis Bacon, a philosopher and statesman, authored Shakespeare’s works. Proponents argue that Bacon had the education, background, and philosophical interests reflected in the plays. Delia Bacon, unrelated to Francis, popularized this theory.
2. The Oxfordian Theory: This theory claims that Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, wrote Shakespeare’s works. Supporters point to de Vere’s aristocratic background, education, and life experiences as evidence. The theory gained traction with the publication of Shakespeare Identified by J. Thomas Looney in 1920.
3. The Marlovian Theory: Christopher Marlowe, a contemporary of Shakespeare, is suggested as the true author in this theory. Advocates believe Marlowe faked his death in 1593 and continued to write under Shakespeare’s name.
4. The Derbyite Theory: This theory proposes that William Stanley, the 6th Earl of Derby, authored Shakespeare’s plays. Proponents argue that Stanley’s background and connections to the theater make him a plausible candidate.
5. The Group Theory: Some believe that Shakespeare’s works were created by a group of writers rather than a single individual. This theory suggests that various authors, including Bacon, Marlowe, and others, collaborated on the plays.

Criticism and Skepticism

Mainstream scholars overwhelmingly reject Shakespeare conspiracy theories, citing a lack of substantial evidence. Extensive historical documentation supports Shakespeare’s authorship, including references by contemporaries and legal records. Critics argue that the conspiracy theories often rely on circumstantial evidence, misinterpretations, or anachronistic assumptions. Furthermore, the diverse styles and themes found in Shakespeare’s works are seen as consistent with the creative evolution of a single author over time.

Despite widespread skepticism, Shakespeare authorship theories continue to attract interest. They reflect broader questions about literary authorship, identity, and the nature of genius. While they remain a fringe belief, these theories contribute to ongoing discussions about one of the most celebrated figures in English literature.

Conclusion

The Shakespeare authorship question highlights the enduring fascination with the Bard and his works. Although mainstream scholarship supports William Shakespeare as the true author, alternative theories provide a window into historical and cultural debates. Whether driven by skepticism, curiosity, or a desire to explore the unknown, Shakespeare conspiracy theories remain a topic of intrigue and speculation.

Recommended Reading

1. Shakespeare Identified – J. Thomas Looney, Kessinger Publishing, 1920.
2. The Philosophy of the Plays of Shakespeare Unfolded – Delia Bacon, Kessinger Publishing, 1857.
3. Shakespeare, Bacon, and the Great Unknown – Andrew Lang, Palala Press, 1884.
4. The Marlowe-Shakespeare Connection – Samuel L. Blumenfeld, McFarland & Company, 2008.
5. The Shakespeare Conspiracy: A Novel – Ted Bacino, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2010.
6. Contested Will: Who Wrote Shakespeare? – James Shapiro, Simon & Schuster, 2010.
7. The Shakespeare Controversy – Warren Hope and Kim Holston, McFarland & Company, 1992.
8. The Oxfordian Theory of Shakespeare Authorship – Ramon Jiménez, McFarland & Company, 2009.
9. Shakespeare’s Unorthodox Biography: New Evidence of an Authorship Problem – Diana Price, Greenwood, 2001.