The Curious Lives of Shakespeare and Cervantes

William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes are two names that have become synonymous with literary greatness. Their works continue to captivate readers, actors, and scholars alike, centuries after their deaths. While they might have lived in different countries and wrote in different languages, the influence of these two literary giants is immeasurable. Let's delve into the curious lives of Shakespeare and Cervantes and explore the legacies they left behind.

A Glimpse into Shakespeare's Life

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564 and is often regarded as the world's greatest playwright. Known for his ability to capture the complexities of the human condition, Shakespeare's plays have been translated into every major language and continue to be performed on stages worldwide. His works such as "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," and "Macbeth" have become cultural touchstones.

Despite his fame, little is known about Shakespeare's personal life. He married Anne Hathaway in 1582, and the couple had three children. Shakespeare later moved to London, where he became involved in the theatrical scene. He joined the Lord Chamberlain's Men, an acting company that performed his plays. Shakespeare's success as a playwright made him a wealthy man, enabling him to retire to Stratford-upon-Avon in 1613. He died in 1616 at the age of 52.

The Curious Lives of Shakespeare & Cervantes

by Webster Young(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3375 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	54 pages
Paperback	:	110 pages
Item Weight	:	6.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.28 x 8 inches
Hardcover	:	126 pages

FREE

The Diverse Journey of Cervantes

Miguel de Cervantes, often referred to as the Spanish Shakespeare, was born in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, in 1547. Best known for his novel "Don Quixote," Cervantes also wrote plays, sonnets, and short stories. His works explored themes of chivalry, love, and the human condition. "Don Quixote" is considered one of the greatest works of fiction ever written and has been translated into numerous languages.

Cervantes' life was marked by challenges and adventures. He fought as a soldier in the Battle of Lepanto, where he sustained injuries that left his left hand partially crippled. He was captured by pirates and spent five years as a slave in Algiers. Despite these setbacks, Cervantes always had a passion for writing. He continued to produce literary works while facing financial hardships and criticism from his contemporaries. His perseverance and talent have secured him a place in literary history.

The Impact of Their Works

Both Shakespeare and Cervantes revolutionized the world of literature. Their works tackled universal human emotions and complexities, making them relatable to audiences from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Shakespeare's plays, written in Early Modern English, contributed significantly to the development of the English language. His innovative expressions, wordplay, and use of puns continue to resonate with readers and theatergoers. Shakespeare's depiction of flawed characters grappling with moral dilemmas and the nature of power has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

Cervantes' "Don Quixote" is considered the first modern novel. It revolutionized the art of storytelling by combining prose and verse and introduced metafictional elements. The characters, particularly Don Quixote and his faithful squire Sancho Panza, have become iconic figures in literature. Cervantes' witty and satirical writing style has influenced countless authors.

Their Legacies Today

Shakespeare and Cervantes continue to be celebrated and studied worldwide. Their works are regularly performed on stages and adapted into various mediums, including film, television, and even graphic novels. Their words have become part of the global cultural fabric, transcending time and language barriers.

Shakespeare's plays are still performed in renowned theaters such as the Royal Shakespeare Company in England and the Stratford Festival in Canada. Cervantes' "Don Quixote" has been adapted into operas and ballets, solidifying its place in the realm of performing arts.

Furthermore, countless books, articles, and academic studies have been dedicated to deciphering the depths of Shakespearean and Cervantine literature. Scholars continue to explore the hidden meanings, social commentary, and psychological dimensions embedded within their works. The legacy of these two literary titans remains a subject of fascination and intellectual pursuit.

William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes left an indelible mark on the world of literature. Their works have transcended time and continue to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought. Their curious lives, filled with triumphs and tribulations, continue to captivate our imagination. Their words and stories will remain timeless, reminding us of the power of the written word and the profound impact that art can have on our lives.

The Curious Lives of Shakespeare & Cervantes

by Webster Young(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3375 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	54 pages
Paperback	:	110 pages
Item Weight	:	6.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.28 x 8 inches
Hardcover	:	126 pages

FREE

This comic romp through the lives of literary masters William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes charts their influence on the modern world. It contrasts the fortunes of two contemporaries whose native countries – England and Spain – went from alliance to enmity in a short space of time.

2016 marked the 400th anniversary of the deaths of two of the world’s most famous authors, William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes.

Pioneering writer and director, Asa Palomera (“a powerhouse on Melbourne’s independent theatre scene”): “I’ve tried to bring forth the sheer humanity of theirs, to present them as it were in their under wears, to show that the emotions we feel from their work are as human as the emotions they, in turn, experienced when they were alive.”

Productions of The Curious Lives of Shakespeare & Cervantes: Adam House Theatre (Edinburgh, 2010),Bloomsbury Theatre (London, 2010),Thai premiere (Bangkok Theatre Festival, 2014). Staged reading at Tara Theatre (London, November 2016).

“this well-charted account of key events in each of their lives moves at a relentless pace … dynamic narration…the audience never loses touch.”
--Scotsman

“The private lives of creative geniuses have long fascinated literary groupies in search of clues about where inspiration comes from… Asa Gim Palomera’s restless piece of imagined history [treats] the two writers as equals with an awful lot in common, despite the age gap that nevertheless saw both men shuffle off this mortal coil within 11 days of each other.” --Herald