Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Who was Shakespeare?
Position‹3 of 5›

William Shakespeare was a woman

This position advances the contested theory that Shakespeare was in fact a woman. It points to readings of 'him' as an 'excellent gentlewoman,' supposed hidden codes, and a plausible motive, making the case for candidates such as the poet Emilia Bassano.

Supporting arguments · 5

  1. William Shakespeare was an 'excellent gentlewoman'
    A well-known Elizabethan literary critic was raving about an anonymous woman writing around the time.
  2. The feminization of Shakespeare
    Scholars have stated that many of Shakespeare’s female characters are given opportunities to demonstrate intelligence and possess a great amount of boldness; these are qualities that were, during Shakespeare’s time, largely associated with male characters.
  3. Shakespeare had a hidden code
    Shakespeare's use of feminine endings reveals a female author trying to include subtle hints at her gender.
  4. There is sufficient motive
    A female writer would have a clear need for a pseudonym like William Shakespeare.
  5. The case for Emilia Bassano
    A case has been built promoting Emilia Bassano as the author of Shakespeare's works.