The theories rejected by anti-Stratfordians regarding Shakespeare's authorship include claims about his limited education, knowledge of the upper class, and the timing of his death. Here options A, B, and D are correct answer.
A - The claim that Shakespeare had very little schooling or lacked documented records of education is not a commonly cited reason by anti-Stratfordians. Many argue that the depth of knowledge displayed in his works could not have been acquired with limited formal education.
B - The idea that Shakespeare knew too much about the upper class to be a merchant's son is not a prominent argument among anti-Stratfordians. Critics often focus on the depth of knowledge and experiences reflected in the plays, but it's not necessarily linked to the assumption about his social status.
D - The assertion that documented facts prove Shakespeare was dead when the plays were written is not a theory commonly held by anti-Stratfordians. There is a historical consensus that Shakespeare died in 1616, but the authorship debate centers around whether he was the sole author during his lifetime.
C - Many authors using pen names during Shakespeare's time is a commonly cited argument by anti-Stratfordians. They posit that Shakespeare may have been a front or that multiple individuals wrote under the Shakespeare name. Here options A, B, and D are correct answer.
Complete question:
Which of the following is/are NOT a theory/theories by anti-Stratfordians about why Shakespeare was NOT the true author of his works? Select all that apply.
A - Shakespeare had very little schooling, and there aren't even records of what education he did undergo.
B - Shakespeare knew too much about the upper class to be a merchant's son.
C - Many authors used pen names during Shakespeare's time.
D - Documented facts prove that Shakespeare was dead when the plays were written.