Washington and Lee University
For those fond of English history and literature, the year 1599 is a marvelous focal point for understanding the genius of Shakespeare and the glories of Elizabethan England. In this dual focus program, we’ll examine life in London, both in the streets and at the Court of Elizabeth I, and look in on the career of a remarkable playwright, who in a single year produced some of his most politically charged work: Henry V, As You Like It, Julius Caesar, and Hamlet.
Drawing in part on James Shapiro’s delightful book of a similar title, we’ll consider how Shakespeare’s powerful imagination was ignited by political developments at home and abroad: the Irish rebellion, the apparent treachery and impending fall of Lord Essex, the lingering threat of the Spanish, and the consummate savvy and good fortune of Queen Elizabeth. In addition to Shakespeare’s works, we’ll also use the lens of popular history for a better understanding of life as it was lived by ordinary Londoners, men and women, who could now attend the newly constructed Globe Theater. Above them sat members of the English aristocracy, sharing Elizabeth’s fondness for such entertainments, even while engaged in court intrigues for political power and favor. Shakespeare himself was a favorite 
of Elizabeth’s, and his relationship with his beloved royal patron influenced his view of the vicissitudes and glorious necessity of monarchy.
1599 was also a momentous year in what was to become the British Empire. The East India Company was founded in that year as Englishmen began to embrace venture capitalism beyond its shores. The Empire would follow, in part to assure the reliability of England’s trade routes. By now a relatively wealthy entrepreneur himself, Shakespeare was no stranger here as well. The Bard applied for a coat of arms as a further expression of his financial success. But, above it all, at least in the minds of Shakespeareans, 1599 is the year of Hamlet, perhaps the greatest play of all time. Whether the Bard was influenced by his French contemporary Montaigne as well as tensions at court will open another window onto the time.