Shakespeare's Enduring Influence on the English Language

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Introduction (1/3)

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of English literature, and his impact on the English language cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we will delve into the many ways in which Shakespeare's works have influenced the English language. We will explore how Shakespeare introduced new words, phrases, and idioms to the language, and examine the enduring legacy of his contributions to the way we speak and write in English today.

Shakespeare's Influence (2/3)

Shakespeare's influence on idioms in the English language is undeniable. Many of the expressions and idiomatic phrases we use today were first used by Shakespeare in his plays.

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative or metaphorical meaning, which is different from its literal meaning. Idioms are often unique to a particular language or culture and are used to convey a specific message or emotion. For example, the phrase "break a leg" is an idiom in English that is often used to wish someone good luck before a performance, despite the fact that it does not have a literal meaning related to breaking a leg. Idioms are an important part of language and are used frequently in everyday communication.

In his book Enthusiasms (1983), journalist Bernard Levin listed many familiar phrases that originated from Shakespeare's works. These phrases can add colour and liveliness to everyday conversations, beyond conveying a message.

Extract from Enthusiasms (1983), Bernard Levin.

If you cannot understand my argument, and declare "It’s Greek to me", you are quoting Shakespeare; if you claim to be "more sinned against than sinning", you are quoting Shakespeare; if you "recall your salad days", you are quoting Shakespeare; if you "act more in sorrow than in anger", if your "wish is father to the thought", if your "lost property has vanished into thin air", you are quoting Shakespeare; if you have ever refused to "budge an inch" or "suffered from green- eyed jealousy", if you have "played fast and loose", if you have "been tongue-tied", "a tower of strength", "hoodwinked" or "in a pickle", if you have "knitted your brows", made "a virtue of necessity", insisted on "fair play", "slept not one wink", "stood on ceremony", "danced attendance (on your lord and master)", "laughed yourself into stitches", "had short shrift", "cold comfort" or "too much of a good thing", if you "have seen better days" or "lived in a fool’s paradise" – why, be that as it may, the more fool you, for it is a foregone conclusion that you are (as good luck would have it) quoting Shakespeare; if you think it is early days and clear out bag and baggage, if you think it is high time and that that is the long and short of it, if you believe that the game is up and that truth will out even if it involves your own flesh and blood, if you lie low till the crack of doom because you suspect foul play, if you have your teeth on edge (at one fell swoop) without rhyme or reason, then – to give the devil his due – if truth were known (for surely you have a tongue in your head) you are quoting Shakespeare; even if you bid me good riddance and send me packing, if you wish I was dead as a doornail, if you think I am an eyesore, a laughing stock, the devil incarnate, a stony-hearted villain, bloody-minded or a blinking idiot, then – by Jove! O Lord! Tut, tut! for goodness’ sake! what the dickens! but me no buts – it is all one to me, for you are quoting Shakespeare.

Conclusion (3/3)

In conclusion, Shakespeare's impact on the English language is immeasurable. His literary works are considered some of the greatest contributions to English literature, and his influence has extended beyond the written word. By introducing numerous idioms and expressions that are still in use today, Shakespeare has left an indelible mark on the English language.

His influence has endured for over four centuries, and his works continue to be celebrated and performed around the world. From his unforgettable characters to his masterful use of language, Shakespeare's legacy is woven deeply into the fabric of English culture. It is no exaggeration to say that Shakespeare's influence on the English language is likely to endure for many more centuries to come.