Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shakespeare

Introduction

### Course Review: Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare **Overview:** "Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare," offered for free by the University of London on Coursera, is an insightful course that delves into the intriguing Shakespeare authorship question. With a unique approach, this course leverages literary analysis, critical thinking, and textual interpretation to investigate the ongoing debate surrounding the true identity of Shakespeare. **Course Structure:** The course is divided into four engaging modules, each designed to foster a deeper understanding of authorship attribution through evidence-based reasoning. Here's a brief overview of what each module offers: 1. **Understanding the Question:** This introductory week provides a solid foundation by outlining the essential arguments for and against William Shakespeare’s authorship. Participants will be equipped with a framework to understand how biases shape perceptions and lead to interpretations of historical and literary evidence. The module also introduces the critical skill of close-reading, paving the way for future analysis. 2. **The Man and the Author:** This module explores the intricate relationship between William Shakspere, the man, and William Shakespeare, the author. Key discussions include the controversial “Hand D” in *Sir Thomas More*, the evidence linking Shakspere to Shakespeare, and the early expressions of doubt regarding authorship. By examining identity and its implications, this segment cultivates a critical lens through which to evaluate Shakespeare’s biography. 3. **The Evidence from Stratford-upon-Avon:** Diving into the geographic context, this module assesses the connection between Shakespeare and Stratford-upon-Avon through contemporary testimonies. It scrutinizes the literacy of Shakespeare’s daughters and their potential implications on the authorship question. Using local references in Shakespeare's plays as a backdrop, learners will engage in a thorough examination of the existing narratives surrounding Shakespeare’s life and monument. 4. **The First Folio as Proof of Authorship:** The final module centers around the 1623 First Folio, a cornerstone piece of evidence for traditional authorship. By conducting a detailed analysis of the texts included in the preface, participants will leverage their acquired skills in literary analysis to critically assess its significance and implications for the authorship debate. **Recommendation:** Whether you are a Shakespeare enthusiast, a budding playwright, or just someone intrigued by the nuances of literary authorship, "Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare" is a must-take course. The format encourages an active engagement with texts and emphasizes critical thinking skills applicable across disciplines. The course is especially valuable for those looking to unravel misconceptions about Shakespeare’s life and legacy while honing analytical skills that are critical in any scholarly endeavor. The discussions are thought-provoking, and the diverse perspectives presented allow learners to form their own educated opinions on the authorship question. **Conclusion:** In conclusion, this course not only enriches your understanding of Shakespeare but also cultivates essential skills in critical analysis and interpretation. The questioning of long-held beliefs about authorship serves as a robust exercise in intellectual rigor that is both enlightening and enjoyable. Sign up today and embark on a journey through one of literature's most captivating mysteries!

Syllabus

Understanding the Question

This week is a practical introduction to the Shakespeare authorship question, covering terms and concepts you will use and outlining the basic arguments for and against William Shakespeare’s authorship of the works attributed to him. You will learn a framework for understanding how a person’s perceptions (including your own) are shaped by pre-existing beliefs and assumptions and learn how this might impact your ability to interpret and assess literary and historical evidence. You will then be introduced to a key theory of the authorship question and to the first practical exercise in close-reading a relevant text.

In this module we’ll look at questions of identity; chiefly at arguments that attempt to link William Shakspere the man to William Shakespeare the author – or to sever that link. The arguments surrounding “Hand D” in Sir Thomas More claim to establish a firm link between Shakspere and Shakespeare, and Shakespeare’s authorship of the “Hand D” pages is now being presented as fact, so it’s important to understand the evidence, arguments, and reasons for this attribution. You’ll look in detail at the non-Stratfordian argument that Shakespeare authorship doubt was first expressed within only four years after the first “Shakespeare” publication in the works of John Marston and Joseph Hall. You’ll consider some of the key Stratfordian and non-Stratfordian arguments related to William Shakspere’s coat of arms. And lastly, you’ll look critically at an important cornerstone of Shakespeare biography, Robert Greene’s reference to a plagiarising actor, the “upstart Crow”.

In the module, you will look more deeply at the connection between Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare, beginning with Shakespeare-related testimony from people who had a provable personal connection to Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare: William Camden, Michael Drayton, Shakespeare's son-in-law, Dr John Hall, and Shakespeare’s daughters. You’ll consider the question of his daughters’ literacy, and whether has any bearing on the authorship question. You’ll look at what are claimed to be local Warwickshire references in the plays, which have been used to support the traditional authorship attribution. And finally, you’ll consider the monument erected to Shakespeare in Stratford’s Holy Trinity Church, arguments that it was altered in the 18th century, and the three texts engraved on that monument and the connected grave.

In this final module you’ll explore the key text supporting the traditional attribution of Shakespeare’s works: the 1623 First Folio of Shakespeare’s works. You will learn why the First Folio is a critically important text for those interested in the Shakespeare authorship question, and you will study in detail – applying the textual analysis skills you have developed so far - the texts included in its preface..