Shakespeare's Other Son?: William Davenant, Playwright, Civil War Gun Runner and Restoration Theatre Manager

Sir William Davenant (1606-1668) was a poet, playwright, and courtier who lived during the English Civil War and Restoration. He was known for his wit, poetry, and skepticism towards court and aristocratic values, and his developing feminist sympathies. This study introduces modern readers to his work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Sir William Davenant, a prominent figure of the 17th century, earned the moniker "Davenant the Poet" during his lifetime. Born to an Oxford vintner, he possessed a unique connection to William Shakespeare, possibly through his godfather. Despite facing challenges such as losing his nose due to mercury treatment for the clap, which others found amusing, Davenant's poetic prowess and talent propelled him to replace Ben Jonson as Poet Laureate. He collaborated with renowned architect Inigo Jones on magnificent Court masques and penned numerous successful plays, showcasing his remarkable comic gift, empathy for ordinary life, and humanity.

During the Civil War, Davenant played a significant role as a Royalist gun-runner, earning a knighthood for his achievements. However, he sought refuge in Paris, where he immersed himself in the creation of an epic poem. Eventually, he was dispatched by Charles II to colonize Virginia, but his journey took a turn when he was captured by the Parliamentarians. Miraculously, he managed to escape execution but faced a five-year imprisonment. With the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Davenant played a pivotal role in revitalizing English theatre. He introduced the first English opera, allowed women to perform on stage, pioneered movable scenery, and introduced the proscenium arch. Furthermore, his innovative adaptations of Shakespeare's works rekindled interest in the playwright, contributing to the revival of his legacy.

Sir William Davenant was a charismatic and endearing character known for his energy, affability, and resilience. Celebrated and influential during his time, he is now surprisingly lesser-known, prompting this comprehensive study to introduce modern readers to his wit, poetry, and evolving skepticism towards Court and aristocratic values. It also highlights his developing feminist sympathies, which were ahead of their time. Through select excerpts and summaries, this study seeks to expand the audience for this entertaining writer, allowing a broader appreciation of his contributions to the literary and theatrical world.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 166 x 240 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399093491