Chapter 1: The State of Play
This chapter introduces the study of Shakespeare’s language, emphasizing its
unique characteristics and historical significance. Crystal addresses common
misconceptions about Shakespearean English, including the idea that it is “Old
English” rather than Early Modern English. He highlights how the playwright’s
linguistic creativity contributed to the development of English, demonstrating how
Shakespeare’s works blend older linguistic forms with innovative expressions.
Chapter 7: The Shape of the Language
Crystal explores the structural aspects of Shakespeare’s language, focusing on
syntax, word order, and sentence construction. He discusses how Shakespeare
frequently manipulated standard word order for poetic and dramatic effects, such as
inversion (e.g., “Goes he” instead of “He goes”). The chapter also examines how
Shakespeare’s flexible syntax allowed for a richer expression of meaning and
emotion, contributing to the dynamic nature of his dialogue.
Chapter 8: Shakespeare’s Vocabulary
This chapter delves into the richness and range of Shakespeare’s vocabulary.
Crystal notes that Shakespeare introduced many new words into English, either by
coining them or popularizing existing but obscure terms. He also examines the
variety of linguistic registers within Shakespeare’s works, from formal rhetoric to
everyday speech. Additionally, the chapter touches on wordplay, including puns and
double meanings, which are central to Shakespeare’s style.
Chapter 9: The Sound of the Language
Crystal investigates the phonetics and pronunciation of Shakespeare’s English,
particularly in the context of Original Pronunciation (OP). He reconstructs how
Shakespeare’s plays would have sounded to contemporary audiences, demonstrating
how rhymes and wordplay often make more sense when read in OP. The chapter
also discusses meter, rhythm, and how actors can use pronunciation to enhance the
meaning and emotional impact of Shakespearean lines.
Overall, these chapters collectively examine the structure, vocabulary, and
