1. Use of Colloquial Language: Shakespeare incorporated everyday, informal language and colloquial expressions that were commonly used by the lower social strata during his time. This included regional dialects, slang, proverbs, and idioms. For example, in "Henry IV, Part 1," the character Falstaff, a commoner, uses phrases such as "I would I were a weaver; I could sing psalms" and "I am as melancholy as a gib cat."
2. Contractions and Elisions: Contracted forms of words and elided syllables were common in the speech of the common people. Shakespeare employed these contractions to create a more casual and rapid rhythm of speech, reflecting the natural flow of conversation. For example, instead of "it is," Shakespeare would often use " 'tis," and instead of "cannot," he would use "can't."
3. Simple Syntax: Commoners' dialogue was typically characterized by simpler sentence structures compared to the more elaborate language used by noble characters. Shakespeare used straightforward grammar, avoiding complex sentence structures and ornate language, to convey the basic thoughts and concerns of the common people.
4. Repetition and Parallelism: Repetition of words, phrases, and ideas was a prominent feature of commoners' speech in Shakespeare's plays. This repetition helped create a sense of urgency, emphasis, and rhythm. Parallel structures also added a musicality and memorability to the dialogue.
5. References to Everyday Life: Commoners' dialogue often included references to everyday activities, occupations, and experiences that were relatable to the lower classes. Shakespeare drew upon the shared cultural knowledge of his audience to create a sense of familiarity and connection with the commoners' world.
6. Use of Humor and Wordplay: Shakespeare employed humor and wordplay to add depth and entertainment to the commoners' dialogue. Commoners often engaged in witty banter, jokes, and puns, revealing their wit and intelligence beyond their social status.
7. Characterization: Shakespeare used the commoners' dialogue to differentiate and develop the characters. Each commoner had a distinct voice and manner of speaking, reflecting their personality, background, and social position.
By incorporating these linguistic features and stylistic choices, Shakespeare created a realistic and authentic representation of the commoners' dialogue in his plays. These aspects contributed to the overall richness and diversity of his dramatic language, allowing him to depict a wide range of characters and social dynamics within his works.