a. Hook: The question of authorship of Shakespeare's plays has long been a topic of debate and speculation.
b. Research Question: Did Shakespeare write his own plays?
II. Body 1: Background
a. Intro/Transition sentence: There have been rumors suggesting that Shakespeare did not write all of his plays.
b. Evidence 1: It is true that there is some controversy surrounding the authorship of Shakespeare's plays. Some scholars and theorists have proposed alternative authors, such as Francis Bacon or Christopher Marlowe.
Evidence 2: However, the majority of experts and historians agree that William Shakespeare, a real person from Stafford, was indeed the author of the plays attributed to him. While Shakespeare did not come from a wealthy family and his parents were not well-educated, this does not necessarily mean he lacked the resources or knowledge to write plays. Shakespeare's talent and understanding of human nature are evident in his works.
c. Conclusion: Despite the rumors, it is important to acknowledge the consensus among scholars that Shakespeare did write his own plays.
III. Body 2: Analysis/Argument
a. Intro/Transition sentence: Let's further analyze the evidence supporting Shakespeare's authorship.
b. Evidence 1: One key piece of evidence supporting Shakespeare's authorship is the sheer volume and variety of his works. Shakespeare wrote 37 plays, numerous sonnets, and poems, showcasing his versatility and depth of literary skill.
c. Evidence 2: Additionally, contemporary records and documents from the time refer to Shakespeare as a playwright and actor. These primary sources provide further confirmation of his authorship.
d. Conclusion: Based on the extensive body of work attributed to Shakespeare and the historical evidence, it is highly probable that he did write his own plays.
IV. Body 3: Analysis/Argument
a. Intro/Transition sentence: Let's explore more evidence to support Shakespeare's authorship.
b. Evidence 1: Shakespeare's plays reflect the language, themes, and social context of the Elizabethan era in which he lived. They draw upon historical events, cultural references, and contemporary issues, all of which align with what is known about Shakespeare's life and the time period in which he wrote.
c. Evidence 2: Furthermore, Shakespeare's plays were performed and enjoyed by audiences during his lifetime, receiving critical acclaim and popular success. This indicates that his works were recognized and appreciated by his peers and the public, further supporting his authorship.
d. Conclusion: Considering the contextual and historical elements of Shakespeare's plays, it becomes increasingly difficult to argue against his authorship.
V. Conclusion:
a. Restate Thesis: In conclusion, the majority of scholars and historians agree that William Shakespeare did write his own plays, despite the ongoing debates and alternative theories.
b. Why this matters: Understanding the authorship of Shakespeare's plays is significant as it allows us to appreciate the genius and contributions of one of the most influential figures in literature. It also highlights the enduring impact of Shakespeare's works on language, culture, and the arts.
Sources:
Source 1: Title: "Shakespeare: The Evidence"
Author: Ian Wilson
Year: 2014
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Source 2: Title: "Shakespeare's Lives"
Author: Samuel Schoenbaum
Year: 1991
Publisher: Clarendon Press
Source 3: Title: "Shakespeare: A Life"
Author: Park Honan
Year: 1998
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Source 4: Title: "Shakespeare: The World as a Stage"
Author: Bill Bryson
Year: 2007
Publisher: Harper Perennial