1. Classical Literature:
* Roman playwrights: Shakespeare was deeply influenced by Roman playwrights like Seneca and Plautus, drawing inspiration for his tragedies and comedies.
* Greek mythology: He adapted many Greek myths, like "Oedipus Rex" and "Romeo and Juliet," to fit his own time and audience.
2. Contemporary Sources:
* Newspapers and chronicles: Shakespeare drew on current events, incorporating real historical figures and events into his plays.
* Travelogues and accounts of foreign lands: He used these to create exotic settings and characters, such as the Venetian setting in "The Merchant of Venice."
3. Folklore and Oral Tradition:
* Fairytales, legends, and ballads: Shakespeare used these to create compelling storylines and characters, drawing on the common cultural understanding of his time.
* Popular songs and dance: He often incorporated these into his plays, adding to the energy and entertainment value.
4. The World Around Him:
* Social and political issues: He addressed issues like poverty, class struggle, and corruption, reflecting the realities of his time.
* Human nature and emotions: He delved into the complexities of love, hate, ambition, and betrayal, revealing timeless truths about the human condition.
5. Other Writers:
* His contemporaries: Shakespeare interacted with other writers, sharing ideas and collaborating on plays.
* Earlier writers: He often borrowed plotlines and characters from earlier playwrights, reinterpreting them for his own purposes.
6. His Own Imagination:
* Personal experiences: While we can't know for sure, it's likely that his own experiences informed his writing, contributing to the emotional depth and realism of his characters.
* Creative genius: Ultimately, Shakespeare's genius lay in his ability to synthesize all these influences and create something truly unique and timeless.
In Conclusion:
Shakespeare's inspiration was a tapestry woven from diverse threads: classical literature, current events, folklore, the world around him, and his own imagination. He took these elements and transformed them into works that continue to captivate audiences centuries later.