By Jennifer Lafferty
Fact-checked by Darci Heikkinen
William Shakespeare, renowned for his dramatic storytelling, often drew inspiration from real-life events and figures. His adaptations transformed historical narratives and folklore into compelling plays. Here are ten Shakespearean plays based on true stories.
10. Hamlet
Shakespeare's Hamlet is inspired by the Viking prince Amleth, featured in Saxo Grammaticus's Deeds of the Danes. Written between 1599 and 1601, the play follows Hamlet as he seeks revenge for his father's murder. Unlike the play's tragic ending, the real Amleth ultimately succeeded in killing his uncle and became king.
9. Richard III
The character of Richard III, depicted in Shakespeare's play from 1592-1593, is based on the real 15th-century monarch. Richard is often portrayed as a villain, a portrayal influenced by Tudor propaganda after his defeat. Shakespeare's depiction has shaped public perception, but modern historians debate the accuracy of this characterization.
8. Macbeth
Macbeth, written between 1606 and 1607, is based on the historical figure Macbeth, who ruled Scotland. The play differs significantly from history; in reality, Macbeth killed King Duncan on the battlefield, not through an assassination plot. The play emphasizes ambition and madness, diverging from the facts of Macbeth's life.
7. Timon of Athens
Written around 1606-1608, Timon of Athens tells the story of a wealthy nobleman who becomes disillusioned with humanity after his generosity is betrayed. Based on ancient tales, the character of Timon reflects themes of friendship and betrayal, with influences from the works of Plutarch.
6. Antony and Cleopatra
Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra dramatizes the tragic romance between Roman general Marc Antony and Egyptian queen Cleopatra. Based on Plutarch's biography, the play emphasizes the passion and drama of their relationship, while also highlighting Cleopatra's motivations for her ultimate fate.
5. King Lear
King Lear, written between 1605 and 1606, is based on the tale of an ancient British king, Leir. The play explores themes of family rivalry and madness, drawing from historical texts, including Holinshed’s Chronicles. Shakespeare expanded on the story, adding depth to Lear’s character and his tragic journey.
4. Henry VIII
In Henry VIII, Shakespeare presents a sympathetic portrayal of Anne Boleyn, reflecting Elizabeth I's legacy. Co-written with John Fletcher in 1613, the play chronicles the tumultuous courtship between Henry and Anne, leading to their ill-fated marriage and the birth of Elizabeth, prophesied to be great.
3. Coriolanus
Coriolanus, often considered Shakespeare's "war play," is based on the Roman general Gnaeus Marcius Coriolanus. The play explores class conflict and political ambition during the formation of Rome’s republic, culminating in Coriolanus’s tragic fate after his rejection by the people he scorns.
2. Cymbeline
In Cymbeline, written between 1608 and 1610, Shakespeare draws inspiration from King Cunobeline, a Celtic ruler. The play intertwines elements from Boccaccio’s Decameron, focusing on themes of fidelity and betrayal, ultimately leading to a happy resolution for the central couple.
1. Othello
Written in 1603, Othello explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal through the story of Othello, a Moorish general, and Desdemona. While initially thought to be based solely on a tale by Giraldi Cinthio, it was later revealed that Shakespeare may have drawn from real events reported by the Venetian embassy. Unlike the play, the historical Othello did not kill Desdemona, though he did physically abuse her.
These plays illustrate Shakespeare's ability to weave real-life stories into compelling narratives, enriching the dramatic landscape of his works.