On Shakespeare's Birthday
The narrative unfolds on a significant day dedicated to a renowned literary figure, where the speaker engages in a ritual of honoring this figure with a laurel crown. This act prompts deep reflection on the legacy of the playwright, whose works are revered despite the speaker's ambivalence towards the man himself. The speaker expresses a desire for the playwright's name to fade into obscurity, not out of disdain, but as a means to explore the implications of authorship and the nature of literary reverence. The speaker distances himself from the Baconian theory, which posits that another historical figure, Bacon, may have authored the works attributed to the playwright. He acknowledges the absurdity of the Baconians' fervor while simultaneously sympathizing with their quest, viewing it as a noble endeavor. The speaker critiques the vehement opposition the Baconians face, questioning why such passionate disdain is directed at those who challenge the established narrative. He contemplates the implications of a hypothetical revelation that Bacon was indeed the true author. The speaker muses on the potential joy and pride that would arise from such a discovery, suggesting that it would not diminish the enjoyment of the works but rather enhance the reverence for Bacon. This leads to a reflection on the nature of hero-worship and the complexities of literary legacy. The speaker imagines the societal upheaval that would follow such a revelation, envisioning the dissolution of Shakespeare societies and the re-evaluation of Shakespeare's place in culture. He humorously speculates on the reactions of literary figures and the public, painting a vivid picture of the chaos that would ensue. The imagined scenarios include the removal of statues, the rewriting of biographies, and the shifting of cultural narratives. Ultimately, the speaker's reflections serve as a commentary on the nature of authorship, the fluidity of literary reputation, and the human tendency to cling to myths and ideals. The work blends humor with philosophical inquiry, challenging readers to consider the value of literary figures beyond their historical identities and the impact of belief on cultural heritage.
By Max Beerbohm · First published 1916 · Genre: Essay, Literary Criticism, Humor · 1,662 words
First lines
My florist has standing orders to deliver early on the morning of this day a chaplet of laurel. With it in my hand, I reach by a step-ladder the nobly arched embrasure that is above my central book-case, and crown there the marble brow of him whose name is the especial glory of our literature -- of all literature. The greater part of the morning is spent by me in contemplation of that brow, and in silent meditation. And, year by year, always there intrudes itself into this meditation the hope that Shakespeare's name will, one day, be swept into oblivion.
What this Textopian page supports
On Shakespeare's Birthday is listed on Textopian as a short story by Max Beerbohm, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Max Beerbohm
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Essay, Literary Criticism, Humor, Philosophical, Historical Fiction
- Length: 1,662 words
- Structure: 1 section, 20 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for On Shakespeare's Birthday by Max Beerbohm
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Discussion starters
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- How does this short story by Max Beerbohm fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Genres
- Essay — The work is a reflective essay that explores themes of authorship, literary reverence, and the debate surrounding Shakespeare's identity.
- Literary Criticism — It critiques the arguments of Baconians and discusses the implications of Shakespeare's authorship on literary appreciation.
- Humor — The writing employs wit and satire to address serious topics, making it humorous in its critique of literary debates.
- Philosophical — It delves into philosophical questions about belief, identity, and the nature of literary legacy.
Tags
Satire · Comedy · Literary Fiction · Humor · Social Commentary · English Literature · 19th Century Literature · 20th Century Literature · Playful Writing Style · Wit · Intellectual Humor · Cultural Criticism