An examination of connections between Robert Southwell and William Shakespeare

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Parr, Richard (2019). An examination of connections between Robert Southwell and William Shakespeare. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The thesis examines connections between Southwell and Shakespeare, in their lives and in their work. Following a literature review, evidence for recusancy in Warwickshire is discussed, including John Shakespeare’s career. Robert Southwell’s work as Jesuit missionary and the political and religious background of the period are examined.

Shakespeare’s early career is explored, with connections revealed between families in Warwickshire and Cheshire and Lancashire. The importance of patronage for both writers is discussed, with particular emphasis on the Earls of Southampton and Arundel.
Discussion of a number of other figures linking Southwell with Shakespeare is followed by evidence for personal and family connections between them.

This historical material is followed by detailed analysis of literary connections between the two writers via examination of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Love’s Labour’s Lost and The Winter’s Tale. These plays are compared with both Southwell’s verse and prose. This is followed by discussion of The Phoenix and Turtle, with particular reference to Southwell’s ‘The burning Babe’, and there is also examination of the rôles of Mary Stuart and Anne Line.

The Conclusion summarises the aims and findings of the thesis, and possibilities for further research.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):