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Will Shakespeare in the World

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For centuries, scholars didn't believe William Shakespeare could have written the plays and sonnets that bore his name. They were too sophisticated and literary for a son of simple country parents, they claimed.

Now, in his new book, "Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare," scholar Stephen Greenblatt has set out to show how religious, political and social movements of the 16th century gave Shakespeare the inspiration to write his timeless works. He also looks at how the early death of Shakespeare's son and his loveless marriage influenced the playwright.

Tune in to hear about the life, times and mind of the most quoted man in the English language.

Guests:

Stephen Greenblatt, professor of the humanities at Harvard University and author of Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare.

Jack Beatty, On Point news analyst, senior editor for The Atlantic Monthly magazine.

This program aired on November 29, 2004. The audio for this program is not available.

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