Shakespeare’s London House Finally Discovered
Recent research has revealed the precise location of William Shakespeare’s home in London, a site long associated with the playwright. The discovery sheds new light on his life, challenging long-standing perceptions about his retirement and engagement with the city.
Shakespeare’s London House Discovered
Lucy Munro, a Professor of Shakespeare and Early Modern Literature at King’s College London, uncovered a 1668 plan of the Blackfriars district while examining local playhouses in the London Archives. This document confirms Shakespeare’s property location for the first time.
Details of the Discovery
- The house was situated near the gatehouse of a 13th-century Dominican friary.
- It featured an L-shaped layout, possibly extending over the gatehouse.
- The property was substantial enough to be divided into two homes.
- Nearby establishments included the Sign of the Cock Tavern.
Munro noted that when Shakespeare acquired the house in 1613, Blackfriars was a prestigious neighborhood, although it later evolved to include a mix of gentry and tradespeople.
Impact on Shakespeare’s Later Life
This discovery has implications for understanding Shakespeare’s final years before his death in 1616. It challenges the belief that he retreated to Stratford-upon-Avon after the Globe Theatre’s fire in June 1613. Munro points out that he continued to write plays post-fire, collaborating with playwright John Fletcher on “The Two Noble Kinsmen.”
Moreover, Munro suggests that the choice of property indicates Shakespeare’s ongoing involvement in London’s vibrant theatrical scene. “His purchase of the Blackfriars property reflects a connection to his professional life,” she states. “He was not merely an isolated figure but an active participant in the city’s artistic community.”
Conclusion
Munro’s findings indicate that significant insights about Shakespeare’s life remain to be uncovered. “There is still much more to learn about our greatest playwright,” she concluded. Will Tosh, Director of Education at Shakespeare’s Globe, praised Munro’s work, emphasizing its contribution to understanding Shakespeare’s relationship with the city. This revelation enhances the portrait of Shakespeare not just as a playwright, but as a resident and integral part of London’s cultural landscape.
