This debate revolves around the question of who wrote the works attributed to William Shakespeare. Some scholars have questioned the traditional view that Shakespeare was the sole author of the plays and sonnets attributed to him, and instead argue that other writers may have been involved.
Here is a brief overview of the authorship debate:
Main Arguments:
- Traditional View: The majority view holds that William Shakespeare of Stratford-upon-Avon was the primary and likely sole author of the works attributed to him, including the plays, sonnets, and longer poems.
- Authorship Skepticism: Some researchers and writers doubt Shakespeare's authorship and propose alternative candidates or scenarios. They argue that the known biographical details about Shakespeare do not seem to align with the depth of learning, knowledge of the court, and vocabulary reflected in the works.
- Alternative Authorship Theories: Various individuals have been suggested as possible alternative candidates or collaborators, including literary contemporaries like Sir Francis Bacon, Christopher Marlowe, and the Earl of Oxford, among others.
- Oxfordian Theory: The Oxfordian theory posits Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, as the real author of Shakespeare's works. It is one of the most prominent alternative authorship theories.
- Stylometric Analysis: Some researchers use stylistic analysis of word usage, sentence structure, and other linguistic patterns to compare texts attributed to Shakespeare with other works of his time. Some studies have suggested differences that might indicate multiple authors or external contributors.
- Evidence and Sources: Proponents of alternative authorship theories often point to inconsistencies in records, alleged classical allusions beyond Shakespeare's known education level, and references to events that predate Shakespeare's birth.
Significance and Impact:
- The debate continues to be a niche area of literary scholarship, with most mainstream academic institutions and scholars supporting Shakespeare's authorship.
- Despite its importance to Shakespearean studies, the authorship debate has not significantly challenged or diminished Shakespeare's status as one of the greatest playwrights in history.
- The discussion has, however, expanded the exploration of Elizabethan literature, the cultural context of the time, and the complexities of authorship during that era.