Context and Critics - Lear Flashcards
What personal connection did Shakespeare have to the name Edmund?
One of his brothers was named Edmund
Shakespeares religious beliefs
Shakespeares mother and father were both Catholics, as were both of their immediate and extended families. Both his father, and his daughter Susanna were fined for recusancy after failing to attend Protestant service.
Shakespeare was buried …
… at the Protestant Holy Trinity Church in Stratford, therefore the likelihood is that Shakespeare was probably a ‘tolerant Anglican’
‘Perhaps Shakespeare was more interested in …
… the dramatic revelation and discussion of controversial ideas than he was in giving his audience yet another set of dogmatic paradigms.’ - PHILIP ALLAN
What does QUARTO mean?
In the book, each sheet of paper has been folded twice making four leaves or eight pages
What does FOLIO mean?
A volume consisting of sheets that have been folded only once, thus making two leaves or four pages.
When was King Lear written
Most likely 1606, though it is possible that it may have been slightly earlier
What effect did the gun powder plot have?
It encouraged a considerable anti-catholic sentiment in England, which the government wished to exploit.
What is the gun powder plot?
It was a failed attempt to assassinate King James I. It was orchestrated by devout Catholics who wanted to kill the Protestant king.
What is the Monteagle letter?
On October 16th, a letter was written by Francis Tresham to his friend and brother in law, Lord Monteagle warning not to attend his seat in parliament on the night of November 5th. Although the letter instructed to be burned and destroyed, Monteagle took the letter to the privy council, and as a result Guy Fawkes’ plan was revealed.
What is the Basilikon Doron?
A treatise on government written by King James in 1599. It was initially written in the form of a private letter to James eldest son. It included general guidelines to follow to be an efficient monarch
