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Cover of Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare, Euseby Treen, Joseph Carnaby, and Silas Gough, Clerk

Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare, Euseby Treen, Joseph Carnaby, and Silas Gough, Clerk

Written by Walter Savage Landor

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Great BritainShakespeare, William, 1564-1616Biographical fictionDramatistsSpenser, Edmund, 1552?-1599Essex, Robert Devereux, Earl of, 1566-1601

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About this book

"Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare" is a historical account written in the late 19th century, rediscovered from original papers. This work is a dramatized depiction of an actual event where a young William Shakespeare is brought before Sir Thomas Lucy, a magistrate, to be examined for deer-stealing. The book combines elements of wit and humor while portraying the social dynamics and legal practices of Elizabethan England, exploring themes of justice, reputation, and ambition through Shakespeare's character. At the start of the book, the youthful William Shakespeare is humorously introduced as he stands accused of deer-stealing before Sir Thomas Lucy. The atmosphere is tense yet playful, as Shakespeare engages in witty exchanges with the magistrate and his chaplain, Silas Gough, creatively defending himself while avoiding serious consequences. The examination unfolds with Shakespeare's clever wordplay and repartee, overshadowing the gravity of the charges against him. Through the early dialogues and interactions among the characters, readers are treated to a lively exploration of Shakespeare's personality and the societal norms of the period, setting the stage for a unique blend of historical fiction and comedic commentary.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare, Euseby Treen, Joseph Carnaby, and Silas Gough, Clerk, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • humorous
  • witty
  • intellectual

Walter Savage Landor's "Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare" dramatizes a pivotal, albeit apocryphal, event in the life of a young William Shakespeare: his appearance before Sir Thomas Lucy for deer-stealing. Set in Elizabethan England, the narrative unfolds as a witty and humorous legal examination, showcasing Shakespeare's nascent genius for language and repartee. Through clever dialogue and insightful character interactions, the book explores the clash between rigid authority and burgeoning talent, using the legal proceedings as a stage for a lively commentary on justice, social hierarchy, and the power of words. It masterfully blends historical fiction with comedic elements, offering a unique glimpse into the imagined early life of the literary titan.

“"A quibble, Sir Thomas, is often the pivot upon which the weighty gates of justice turn."”

Key themes

The Power of Language and Wit
This is the central theme, showcased through Shakespeare's extraordinary linguistic dexterity. His defense is entirely based on his ability to manipulate words, to frame arguments, to charm, and to intellectually outmaneuver his accusers. It highlights language not just as a tool for communication, but as a weapon, a shield, and a gateway to deeper understanding.
Justice vs. Law
The book explores the tension between the rigid application of legal statutes and a more nuanced, perhaps moral or empathetic, understanding of justice. Sir Thomas Lucy represents the inflexible law, while Shakespeare, through his arguments, subtly questions whether true justice is served by such strict adherence, especially when individual circumstances and motivations are considered.
Reputation and Social Standing
The theme examines how social perception and standing influence interactions and outcomes. Sir Thomas Lucy is deeply concerned with his reputation as a magistrate and landowner, seeing Shakespeare's act as an affront. Shakespeare, though young and not yet famous, is subtly beginning to forge a reputation through his intellect, which ironically helps him navigate the situation.

Worth discussing

How does Landor's portrayal of young Shakespeare align with or challenge your existing perceptions of the playwright?

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