Shakespeare and the Bible: Influence, Themes, and Language

William Shakespeare’s enduring influence on literature often finds a unique intersection with another monumental text: the Bible. Both works have permeated Western culture, shaping language, themes, and moral philosophies for centuries.

Their convergence offers rich insights into how biblical narratives and linguistics infused Elizabethan drama, providing audiences with layered meanings and universal truths.

Shakespeare’s Biblical Knowledge

William Shakespeare’s familiarity with the Bible is evident throughout his body of work, reflecting a deep engagement with its texts. During the Elizabethan era, the Bible was a cornerstone of daily life, and its stories, parables, and teachings were widely known. Shakespeare, like many of his contemporaries, would have been exposed to the Bible from a young age, likely through the Geneva Bible, which was the most popular English translation at the time. This exposure is apparent in the way he weaves biblical references seamlessly into his plays and sonnets.

The playwright’s biblical knowledge is not merely superficial; it demonstrates a nuanced understanding of scripture. For instance, in “Hamlet,” the protagonist’s existential musings echo the sentiments found in the Book of Ecclesiastes, where the futility and brevity of life are pondered. Similarly, in “Macbeth,” the themes of guilt and redemption are reminiscent of the moral struggles depicted in the Psalms. Shakespeare’s ability to draw on these texts suggests a profound comprehension of their theological and philosophical underpinnings.

Moreover, Shakespeare’s use of biblical allusions often serves to enhance the emotional and moral complexity of his characters. In “King Lear,” the suffering of the titular character can be paralleled with the trials of Job, a figure from the Old Testament who endures immense suffering yet remains steadfast in his faith. This parallel not only deepens the audience’s empathy for Lear but also invites them to consider broader questions about human suffering and divine justice.

Biblical References in Shakespeare’s Plays

Shakespeare’s integration of biblical references is both intricate and profound, adding layers of meaning to his works that resonate on multiple levels. From direct quotations to subtle allusions, these references are woven seamlessly into the fabric of his plays, enriching the narrative and providing depth to his characters’ experiences.

In “The Merchant of Venice,” for instance, Shylock’s famous speech, “Hath not a Jew eyes?” is laden with biblical undertones. The speech echoes the biblical theme of common humanity found in the Book of Genesis, where all humans are created in the image of God. This reference not only humanizes Shylock but also challenges the audience to reflect on their own prejudices and the nature of mercy.

Similarly, in “Measure for Measure,” the Duke’s disguise as a friar and his ensuing actions evoke New Testament themes of forgiveness and redemption. The Duke’s judgments and his insistence on mercy align closely with the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels. These allusions serve to underscore the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, encouraging the audience to ponder the complexities of justice and compassion.

“Richard II” offers another compelling example with its exploration of kingship and divine right. The play draws heavily on biblical imagery, particularly from the Books of Samuel and Kings, which deal with the anointing and fall of monarchs. Richard’s downfall is depicted with a sense of tragic inevitability, reminiscent of the biblical narratives where flawed leaders face divine retribution. This parallel amplifies the gravity of Richard’s fate, making his story a powerful meditation on power and its consequences.

In “Twelfth Night,” the theme of mistaken identity and eventual recognition can be seen as a reflection of the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son. The resolution of the play, where characters find forgiveness and reconciliation, mirrors the parable’s message of redemption and the joy of reunion. Such biblical echoes imbue the comedic elements with a deeper, spiritual resonance.

Shakespeare’s Use of Biblical Language

The linguistic richness of Shakespeare’s works is significantly enhanced by his adept use of biblical language, which adds a layer of gravitas and universality to his plays. By incorporating the diction, syntax, and rhetorical devices found in the Bible, Shakespeare not only pays homage to a text revered by his contemporaries but also elevates the literary quality of his own writing.

One notable example is Shakespeare’s use of parallelism, a rhetorical device frequently employed in the Bible, particularly in the Psalms and Proverbs. In “Julius Caesar,” the famous speech by Mark Antony—“Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears”—mirrors the cadence and structure of biblical passages. This technique not only makes the speech more memorable but also imbues it with a sense of solemnity and authority, echoing the moral gravity often found in biblical texts.

Additionally, Shakespeare’s strategic use of archaic language, reminiscent of the biblical style, serves to create a timeless quality in his plays. Words such as “thee,” “thou,” and “thy” are drawn directly from the biblical lexicon, lending a sense of antiquity and reverence. In “The Tempest,” Prospero’s speeches are replete with such language, enhancing the character’s mystical and authoritative presence. This deliberate choice of words helps to transport the audience to a world where the divine and the mortal intersect, much like the narratives found in the Bible.

Metaphorical language is another tool Shakespeare borrows from the Bible, enriching his imagery and thematic resonance. In “Othello,” Iago’s description of jealousy as the “green-eyed monster” draws on the vivid, illustrative style of biblical metaphors, which often use concrete imagery to convey abstract concepts. This metaphor not only encapsulates the destructive nature of jealousy but also evokes the vivid, almost parabolic storytelling found in biblical literature.

Parallels Between Biblical and Shakespearean Characters

Shakespeare’s characters often exhibit striking similarities to biblical figures, drawing on shared human experiences and moral dilemmas that transcend time. These parallels not only enrich the narratives but also offer audiences a deeper understanding of both the characters and the underlying themes.

Consider the character of Hamlet, whose internal struggle with duty, revenge, and morality mirrors the story of David from the Old Testament. Both characters are burdened with the weight of divine expectation and familial duty, yet they grapple with indecision and moral conflict. Hamlet’s famous soliloquy, “To be or not to be,” resonates with David’s own moments of doubt and introspection, highlighting the universal quest for purpose and righteousness.

Similarly, Lady Macbeth’s character can be juxtaposed with Jezebel, the infamous queen from the Book of Kings. Both women are driven by ambition and power, willing to manipulate and commit heinous acts to achieve their goals. Lady Macbeth’s descent into madness and guilt mirrors Jezebel’s eventual downfall, serving as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition and the inevitable consequences of moral transgressions.

In “The Tempest,” Prospero’s role as a wise and controlling figure parallels the biblical figure of Moses. Both lead their people through trials and tribulations, using their knowledge and power to guide and protect. Prospero’s eventual act of forgiveness and relinquishment of power reflects Moses’ own journey of leadership, sacrifice, and ultimate humility before God. This parallel underscores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the relinquishing of earthly power for higher spiritual truths.