National Talk Like Shakespeare Day

Young woman reciting Shakespeare, wearing an elegant gown, English countryside setting, with quill and parchment.. — National talk like shakespeare day illustration

Greetings, my dear readers! Today we shall embark on a journey into the realms of the inimitable Bard himself. Forsooth, it is National Talk Like Shakespeare Day! Prepare to don thy finest ruff, unleash thine eloquence, and strut with the grace of a thousand sonnets!

When is Talk Like Shakespeare Day?

It's national talk like shakespeare day on the 23rd April.

The Birth of National Talk Like Shakespeare Day

Verily, the origins of this hallowed day harken back to April 23rd, 1564, the very day William Shakespeare, the legendary playwright, poet, and all-around wordsmith, was born. In the year 2016, a fervent admirer of the Bard, David Crystal, took it upon himself to honor the great playwright in a jubilant fashion. He devised National Talk Like Shakespeare Day as a way to celebrate the linguistic majesty and timeless beauty of Shakespeare's works.

Embracing the Lingo

On this day, friends and folk from far and wide employ an array of Shakespearean phrases and vocabulary in their everyday conversations. From speaking in iambic pentameter to pepper thy speech with 'thee,' 'thou,' and 'forsooth,' the possibilities are as abundant as the comedic twists in one of Shakespeare's plays.

Quoting the Great Bard

To immerse yourself fully in the spirit of National Talk Like Shakespeare Day, take heed of some of the most famous quotes from the man himself. 'All the world's a stage,' 'To be or not to be,' and 'What's in a name?' are but a few immortal lines that continue to resonate with audiences to this day.

History behind the term 'Talk Like Shakespeare'

1769

Birth of William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, widely considered the greatest playwright in history, was born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. His works, including plays like Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Macbeth, have had a profound impact on the world of literature and the English language.

1594

Writing and Performing Shakespearean Plays

During the late 16th century, William Shakespeare wrote and performed numerous plays that would later become iconic. His unique writing style, rich in poetic language and vivid characters, helped shape the English theater scene of the time. Shakespeare introduced many well-known phrases and expressions into the English language through his plays.

1598

Publication of Shakespeare's Works

In 1598, two of Shakespeare's fellow actors and friends, John Heminges and Henry Condell, published the first collection of his plays, known as the First Folio. This compilation preserved many of Shakespeare's works, ensuring their lasting legacy beyond his lifetime.

1769

Celebrating the 200th Birth Anniversary of Shakespeare

In 1769, various events were organized worldwide to commemorate the 200th birth anniversary of William Shakespeare, honoring his contributions to literature and theater. These celebrations sparked renewed interest in his works and the language he used.

2005

Creation of 'Talk Like Shakespeare' Day

In 2005, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater introduced the concept of 'Talk Like Shakespeare Day,' encouraging people to incorporate Shakespearean language and expressions into their conversations. This playful celebration aimed to raise awareness of Shakespeare's linguistic influence and to make his works more accessible to a wider audience.

2009

Official Recognition of 'Talk Like Shakespeare' Day

In 2009, 'Talk Like Shakespeare' Day gained official recognition when the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution supporting the celebration. This acknowledgment further popularized the observance and encouraged individuals and organizations to embrace the spirit of Shakespearean language on this day.