The Age of Exploration brought an influx of new words, place names, and expressions into the English language. Shakespeare, who was an avid reader and observer of his time, incorporated many of these new terms into his plays. For example, words like "Cannibals," "savages," "tempest," and "sea change" all find their way into his works.
2. Widening of Horizons and Cultural Awareness:
Shakespeare was exposed to a wider range of cultures, beliefs, and customs as a result of the Age of Exploration. This exposure informed his portrayal of different characters and societies in his plays. For example, in "The Tempest," he draws inspiration from the accounts of travelers who encountered Native Americans and other indigenous peoples during their explorations.
3. Global Themes and Settings:
The exploration of the world introduced Shakespeare to diverse landscapes, climates, and societies, which he subsequently used as settings for his plays. "The Tempest" is set on a remote island, while "The Merchant of Venice" takes place in various cities across Europe and the Mediterranean. These settings reflect the growing interconnectedness of the world and the fascination with distant lands.
4. Influence on the Plot and Characters:
Shakespeare drew inspiration from real-life exploration narratives when crafting the plots and characters of his plays. The story of "The Tempest," for example, bears similarities to the shipwreck and subsequent experiences of English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh. Additionally, characters like Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, reflect the encounter between different cultures during this period.
5. Imperial and Colonial Perspectives:
The Age of Exploration coincided with a rise in European imperialism, and Shakespeare's works sometimes reflect the prevailing perspectives and attitudes of his time. In plays like "Titus Andronicus" and "The Merchant of Venice," he portrays non-European characters through the lens of European superiority and dominance. However, it's important to note that Shakespeare also offers more complex and nuanced representations of individuals and their cultures.
In summary, the Age of Exploration had a significant impact on Shakespeare and his writing, enriching his language, expanding his cultural horizons, and providing inspiration for settings, plots, and characters in his plays. While Shakespeare's works may reflect some of the biases of his time, his exploration of different worlds and cultures also highlights his keen observation of human nature and his ability to create universal and enduring stories.