Writing in Shakespearean style is a creative and expressive endeavor that invites you to explore the rich language and poetic rhythm of the Elizabethan era. Whether you’re writing a sonnet, play, or soliloquy, embracing the structure, vocabulary, and dramatic flair of Shakespeare’s work allows you to convey emotions and narratives in a unique and timeless manner. To write Shakespearean effectively, one must study his use of iambic pentameter, master the structure of Elizabethan English, and adopt the tone and vocabulary that defined his literary brilliance.
Understanding the Foundations of Shakespearean Writing
What Does It Mean to Write Shakespearean?
Writing in a Shakespearean style means mimicking the poetic and dramatic elements that characterize the works of William Shakespeare. This includes a specific meter known as iambic pentameter, the use of early modern English grammar and vocabulary, and themes that often revolve around love, betrayal, fate, honor, and the human condition.
Familiarity with Shakespeare’s Works
Before attempting to write in this style, it’s important to read and absorb some of Shakespeare’s most famous works. Plays likeRomeo and Juliet,Macbeth,Hamlet, andA Midsummer Night’s Dreamprovide excellent examples of how Shakespeare blended rhythm, language, and emotion.
Mastering Iambic Pentameter
What Is Iambic Pentameter?
Iambic pentameter is a rhythmic pattern consisting of five iambs per line. An iamb is a metrical foot with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. The rhythm of a line in iambic pentameter often sounds like:
da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM
For example: But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks?
Writing in Meter
- Begin by crafting sentences that follow the unstressed-stressed pattern.
- Use natural speech rhythms, adjusting word order to fit the meter.
- Practice with simple lines before composing more elaborate verses.
Incorporating Elizabethan Vocabulary and Grammar
Common Words and Phrases
Shakespeare often used words that may be unfamiliar to modern readers. Some frequently used examples include:
- Thou– you (subject)
- Thee– you (object)
- Thy/Thine– your/yours
- Art– are
- Hast– have
- Dost– do
Grammatical Conventions
Shakespearean grammar often includes inverted word orders or additional suffixes. For example:
- What dost thou seek? instead of What do you seek?
- Adding -eth or -est to verbs: He speaketh the truth.
Writing Shakespearean Dialogue
Using Soliloquies and Monologues
Shakespeare’s characters often speak directly to the audience through soliloquies or monologues. These are great tools for expressing internal thoughts and emotions in a poetic form.
Creating Dramatic Exchanges
Shakespearean dialogue is often witty, emotional, or philosophical. Use metaphor, simile, and rhetorical devices to make the dialogue more expressive. For example:
My love is thine, as constant as the moon / That keeps her watch upon the midnight tide.
Composing a Shakespearean Sonnet
Sonnet Structure
A Shakespearean sonnet contains 14 lines, written in iambic pentameter, and follows the rhyme scheme ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
Building the Sonnet
- Quatrain 1: Introduce the theme or problem.
- Quatrain 2: Develop or complicate the theme.
- Quatrain 3: Add further depth or contrast.
- Couplet: Provide a resolution or twist.
Example Opening Lines
When shadows fall and whisper on the floor, Thy voice remains, though thou art heard no more.
Using Figurative Language
Metaphor and Simile
Shakespeare’s writing is rich with metaphor and simile. Compare abstract ideas to vivid, concrete images. For instance:
Love is a smoke raised with the fume of sighs.
Personification
Give human traits to non-human elements to enhance emotional depth:
The night hath eyes, and silence speaks aloud.
Themes and Motifs in Shakespearean Style
Common Themes
- Love and passion
- Fate and destiny
- Betrayal and revenge
- Power and ambition
- Nature and time
Integrating Symbolism
Use symbols such as stars (fate), roses (beauty), or daggers (betrayal) to reinforce deeper meanings in your writing.
Practical Tips for Writing Shakespearean
- Read Shakespeare regularly to absorb tone and rhythm.
- Practice writing short phrases, then expand to full scenes or poems.
- Use online Elizabethan dictionaries for authentic vocabulary.
- Workshopping with peers or teachers can improve accuracy and style.
Creating Original Shakespearean Scenes
Set the Stage
Describe your setting with poetic detail, evoking mood and atmosphere. For example:
A moonlit glade in Arden’s deepest wood, Where foxglove grows and secrets stir the air.
Introduce Characters
Develop unique voices for each character using varied vocabulary, status-based speech, and emotional tone.
Develop Conflict
Conflict drives drama. Use misunderstandings, forbidden love, or political intrigue to create tension between characters.
Learning how to write Shakespearean is a rewarding creative pursuit that strengthens your understanding of poetic form, language history, and dramatic storytelling. From mastering iambic pentameter to crafting expressive dialogue and vivid imagery, writing in the Bard’s style invites you to explore the beauty of language in its most theatrical form. With dedication and practice, you’ll be able to breathe new life into Shakespearean tradition while expressing your own unique voice.