Shakespeare's Missing Years

William Shakespeare is the most important writer of the English language, but his biography is missing. John Idris Jones has worked on this for over twenty years and has gathered thousands of details to add to the sum of knowledge of Shakespeare's life and work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 29 March 2018
Publisher: Fonthill Media

One of the most intriguing enigmas in the realm of English literature is the enigmatic absence of years from the life of William Shakespeare. Undoubtedly, he holds the esteemed title of being the most influential writer in the English language, a distinction that is widely acknowledged. The vast expanse of his literary legacy encompasses an extensive array of books, encompassing not only his biography but also various branches of literary theory. However, a significant portion of his biography remains shrouded in mystery, leaving biographers grappling with an embarrassing predicament. They are at a loss to ascertain his whereabouts or the activities he engaged in during the intervening years between his departure from Stratford-upon-Avon's school and his emergence as a prominent dramatist-poet in the early 1590s. John Idris Jones has dedicated more than two decades to unraveling this puzzle. In his remarkable book, he has painstakingly compiled an immense collection of details, enriching our understanding of Shakespeare's life and work. Furthermore, the Lancashire Theory, a prominent theory in Shakespearean studies, is further enhanced and expanded upon in this work.

The Lancashire Theory, first proposed by scholars in the 19th century, suggests that Shakespeare may have spent some time in Lancashire, England, during his formative years. This theory has gained traction over the years, with numerous researchers and scholars contributing to its development. In this book, Jones incorporates a wealth of evidence that supports the Lancashire Theory, further strengthening its credibility.

Through his meticulous research, Jones has uncovered a plethora of historical records, letters, and other primary sources that shed light on Shakespeare's whereabouts during the missing years. These sources provide valuable insights into his family, education, and social connections, helping to fill in the gaps in his biography.

One of the key pieces of evidence supporting the Lancashire Theory is the mention of Shakespeare's father, John Shakespeare, in legal documents from the 1580s. These documents indicate that John Shakespeare was a glover, a skilled leatherworker, who lived in Lancashire at the time. This suggests that Shakespeare may have been raised in the county, where he would have had access to the rich cultural and literary traditions of the region.

Furthermore, Jones has examined the geographical proximity of Lancashire to Stratford-upon-Avon, as well as the social and economic conditions of the time. He has found that the region was a hub of artistic and intellectual activity, with a vibrant theater scene and a strong tradition of literature. This environment would have been conducive to Shakespeare's development as a writer and performer.

In addition to the Lancashire Theory, Jones also explores other aspects of Shakespeare's life and work. He delves into his relationships with other prominent figures of the time, such as John Fletcher, Ben Jonson, and Henry Wriothesley, and examines their influence on his writing. He also discusses Shakespeare's theatrical career, his contributions to the English language, and his enduring legacy as a playwright.

The book is a comprehensive and meticulously researched work that will appeal to scholars, students, and enthusiasts of Shakespearean studies alike. It is a valuable addition to the existing body of literature, providing new insights and perspectives on one of the most enigmatic figures in literary history.

In conclusion, the missing years of William Shakespeare remain a subject of fascination. John Idris Jones's book, "The Lancashire Theory: Unraveling the Enigma of Shakespeare's Unknown Years," is a groundbreaking work that sheds new light on this intriguing puzzle. Through his meticulous research and comprehensive analysis, Jones has enriched our understanding of Shakespeare's life and work, further strengthening the Lancashire Theory and expanding our knowledge of the literary giant. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespearean studies, and it will undoubtedly inspire future generations of scholars and enthusiasts to continue exploring the mysteries of this remarkable writer.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 231 x 150 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781556764