Shakespeare Was a Woman and Other Heresies: How Doubting the Bard Became the Biggest Taboo in Literature

Shakespeare Was a Woman and Other Heresies is a thought-provoking investigation into the Shakespeare authorship question, exploring how doubting that William Shakespeare wrote his plays became an act of blasphemy. The book explores the forces of nationalism, empire, religion, and mythmaking that have shaped our admiration for Shakespeare and considers who may have been hiding behind his name. It also examines the larger problem of historical truth and how human imperfections shape our construction of the past.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

A captivating exploration into the enigmatic realm of Shakespeare's authorship, delving into the profound implications of questioning his identity as the revered Bard. This thought-provoking inquiry uncovers the intricate web of factors that have shaped our admiration for Shakespeare throughout history, encompassing nationalism, empire, religion, mythmaking, gender, and class. Journalist and literary critic Elizabeth Winkler embarks on a journey that takes readers from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil landscapes of Stratford-upon-Avon and the hallowed halls of Washington, DC. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Winkler unveils the historical forces that have shaped our perception of Shakespeare, shedding light on the taboo surrounding the questioning of his authorship. As she delves into the minds of writers, thinkers, and scholars who have grappled with the riddle of Shakespeare's origins, she uncovers intriguing possibilities—a forgotten woman, a disgraced aristocrat, or even a government spy? The plays themselves, with their intricate plots and characters, serve as a backdrop to this captivating investigation, offering glimpses into the Bard's fascination with mistaken identities, disguises, and the enigmatic nature of reality. Winkler's inquiry extends beyond the realm of literature, delving into the broader issue of historical truth and the impact of human imperfections on our understanding of the past. She challenges the notion that history is a static and objective narrative, emphasizing that our interpretation of history is shaped by the stories we seek to uncover. Shakespeare Was a Woman and Other Heresies is a masterful work of literary detection that will forever alter our perception of Shakespeare and the world he created.

Weight: 578g
Dimension: 162 x 243 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982171261