Johnathan Bi How Shakespeare Bought His Way into the Upper Class | Stephen Greenblatt
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Nov 15, 2024 In this engaging discussion, Stephen Greenblatt, a renowned Shakespeare scholar, explores the Bard's social ambitions and his efforts to rise above his humble beginnings. Greenblatt highlights Shakespeare's purchase of a coat of arms as a bold step toward social elevation. He delves into the themes of loss and recovery in Shakespeare's works, connecting them to modern ideas of second chances. The conversation also uncovers the complexity of Shakespeare's characters and motivations, revealing the intricate interplay between ambition and societal expectations in Elizabethan England.
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Greenblatt's Family History
- Stephen Greenblatt's grandfather was a rag picker in Lithuania before immigrating to America.
- His father then became a lawyer, demonstrating a significant social jump in just one generation.
Social Significance of Gentility
- Being a gentleman in Shakespeare's time held significant social weight, commanding respect and different treatment.
- It even impacted legal proceedings, potentially sparing gentlemen from harsh punishments.
The College of Heralds' Role
- The College of Heralds both facilitated and restricted social mobility.
- They verified claims to gentility while also offering a system for commoners to ascend.
