On the 23rd of April, we partake in the merriment of Talk Like Shakespeare Day, an occasion that grants us the opportunity to converse in the manner of the illustrious playwright, William Shakespeare. On this day, we may adopt the language of the 'Bard of Avon,' as he was fondly referred to, by substituting commonplace words such as "you" and "they" with their archaic counterparts like "ye" and "thee" or "thou." This delightful day came into being through the efforts of the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, receiving official endorsement from Mayor Rahm Emanuel in the year 2009, and has continued to be joyously celebrated ever since.

The Life and Legacy of William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. He is best known for his plays, which include tragedies like "Hamlet," "Othello," and "Macbeth"; comedies like "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" and "Twelfth Night"; and histories like "Henry V" and "Richard III." In addition to his plays, Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets and a number of other poems.

Shakespeare’s work has had a profound influence on the English language, contributing numerous phrases and words that are still in use today. His exploration of human nature, emotions, and societal issues has made his plays timeless, continuing to be studied, performed, and loved by audiences around the world.

National Talk Like Shakespeare Day was established to celebrate Shakespeare’s influence on language and culture, encouraging people to engage with his works in a fun and interactive way.

How to Talk Like Shakespeare

Speaking like Shakespeare involves using language, phrases, and expressions that were common in Elizabethan England. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Use “Thee” and “Thou”: Replace "you" with "thee" (object) and "thou" (subject). For example, instead of saying "You are amazing," say "Thou art amazing."

2. Incorporate “Thy” and “Thine”: Use "thy" for "your" (before a consonant) and "thine" for "yours" or before a vowel. For example, "Thy courage is admirable" or "Is this dagger thine?"

3. Add “-eth” or “-st” to Verbs: To give your speech a Shakespearean flair, add "-eth" or "-st" to verbs. For example, "He runneth" instead of "He runs" or "Thou dost" instead of "You do."

4. Speak in Iambic Pentameter: Shakespeare often wrote in iambic pentameter, a rhythm with five "feet" of alternating unstressed and stressed syllables. Try speaking in this rhythmic pattern for an authentic Shakespearean touch.

5. Use Shakespearean Insults: Shakespeare was known for his clever and humorous insults. Have fun by using phrases like "Thou art as fat as butter" or "Thou pribbling ill-nurtured knave!"

6. Quote Famous Lines: Sprinkle some of Shakespeare’s most famous lines into your conversations. Phrases like "To be, or not to be," "All the world’s a stage," and "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet" are instantly recognizable and add a dramatic flair to your speech.

How to Celebrate National Talk Like Shakespeare Day

1. Speak in Elizabethan English: Throughout the day, try to speak like a character from one of Shakespeare’s plays. Whether you’re at work, school, or home, have fun incorporating Shakespearean language into your conversations.

2. Read or Perform Shakespeare: Take some time to read one of Shakespeare’s plays or sonnets, or gather friends and family to perform a scene from one of his works. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or a novice, performing Shakespeare is a great way to appreciate his writing.

3. Attend a Shakespeare-Themed Event: Many theaters, libraries, and cultural organizations host events in honor of Shakespeare’s birthday, including performances, readings, and workshops. Check your local listings to see if there’s an event near you.

4. Watch a Shakespeare Play or Movie: If you prefer to relax, watch a movie or play adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s works. There are countless adaptations, from traditional renditions to modern interpretations, that capture the essence of his stories.

5. Host a Shakespearean Dinner Party: Invite friends over for a Shakespeare-themed dinner party. Serve food inspired by the Elizabethan era, decorate your space to resemble an old English tavern, and encourage guests to dress in period costumes and speak in Shakespearean language.

6. Share on Social Media: Use the hashtag #TalkLikeShakespeareDay to share your Shakespearean adventures on social media. Post quotes, videos of your performances, or photos from your Shakespeare-themed activities to inspire others to join in the fun.

Fun Facts About Shakespeare

• Shakespeare’s Influence on Language: Shakespeare is credited with coining over 1,700 words and phrases that are still in use today, such as "eyeball," "fashionable," and "break the ice."

• Universal Themes: Shakespeare’s works explore universal themes like love, power, jealousy, betrayal, and the human condition, making them relevant across cultures and generations.

• The Globe Theatre: The original Globe Theatre in London, where many of Shakespeare’s plays were performed, was an open-air theater that could hold up to 3,000 spectators. A modern reconstruction of the Globe was opened in 1997 near its original site.

• Shakespeare in Translation: Shakespeare’s works have been translated into over 100 languages, making him one of the most translated authors in the world.

The Legacy of National Talk Like Shakespeare Day

National Talk Like Shakespeare Day is more than just a day to speak in old-fashioned English; it’s a celebration of the lasting impact of Shakespeare’s work on language, literature, and culture. By engaging with his unique way of writing and speaking, people can gain a greater appreciation for his contributions to the arts and the enduring relevance of his themes.

This day also serves as an opportunity to have fun with language, encouraging creativity and playfulness in how we communicate. Whether you’re a Shakespeare enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to mix up your daily routine, National Talk Like Shakespeare Day offers a chance to connect with the Bard’s work in a lighthearted and interactive way.