It's a question that often sparks curiosity: when exactly did William Shakespeare become a 'success' as a writer? The truth is, the very notion of 'success' for a writer, especially one from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, is a far more nuanced and evolving concept than we might initially imagine.
We tend to think of success in modern terms – bestseller lists, critical acclaim, lucrative adaptations. But for Shakespeare, operating in a vastly different cultural and economic landscape, success was likely measured by more immediate, practical concerns. His primary goal, after all, was to earn a living for himself and his company, the Lord Chamberlain's Men (later the King's Men).
His plays were written to be performed, to entertain audiences and to fill the coffers of the Globe Theatre. The fact that his works were consistently produced, performed, and enjoyed by a wide range of society – from groundlings to royalty – suggests a significant level of contemporary success. He was a working playwright, and a highly prolific one at that. His ability to consistently produce plays that resonated with audiences, tackling themes of love, loss, ambition, and betrayal, kept him in demand.
Beyond the immediate financial and performance success, there's the matter of reputation. While we don't have the equivalent of modern book reviews or literary awards from his era, there are indications that Shakespeare was highly regarded by his peers. Other writers of the time, like Ben Jonson, acknowledged his genius, even if with a touch of professional rivalry. The very act of his plays being published, albeit often in quartos that were not always authorized, speaks to a demand for his work beyond the stage.
However, the true, enduring success of Shakespeare, the kind that transcends centuries and continents, is a different story altogether. It wasn't a single moment or a specific year. It was a gradual process, a slow burn that intensified over time. As his plays were rediscovered and reinterpreted by later generations, their literary merit and profound insights into the human condition became increasingly apparent.
The 18th and 19th centuries, in particular, saw a significant rise in Shakespearean scholarship and performance. Critics began to dissect his language, his character development, and his thematic depth, elevating him from a popular entertainer to a literary titan. This period solidified his place in the canon of English literature, a status that has only grown stronger with time.
Interestingly, even in our modern era, the debate about what constitutes 'good writing' continues. Research into English examinations, for instance, highlights how standards and values in written English evolve. While this research focuses on contemporary educational contexts, it underscores the dynamic nature of language and literary appreciation. Shakespeare's work, however, has proven remarkably resilient, adapting to changing tastes and interpretations while retaining its core power.
So, when was Shakespeare considered a success? He was successful in his own time as a popular and productive playwright. But his ultimate, monumental success – the one that defines him today – is a legacy built over centuries, a testament to the timeless quality of his storytelling and his unparalleled understanding of humanity.
