How Shakspere Came to Write the Tempest By: Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936)

One of the most captivating aspects of Kipling’s work is his ability to seamlessly intertwine historical facts with fictional narratives. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, he brings to life the world of Elizabethan England, its vibrant theater scene, and the enigmatic figure of William Shakespeare. Kipling’s meticulous attention to detail ensures an immersive reading experience, leaving readers with a profound understanding of the era in which The Tempest was conceived.

Another highlight of this book is Kipling’s exploration of the political and cultural influences that shaped Shakespeare’s writing. The author delves into the complex relationship between power, colonization, and imagination, showing how these themes find resonance in The Tempest. Kipling’s analysis is thought-provoking, inviting readers to consider the deeper layers of meaning within Shakespeare’s play and its relevance to the Elizabethan society.

Furthermore, Kipling’s prose is both elegant and accessible, making the book a pleasure to read for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and casual readers alike. His ability to strike a balance between scholarly analysis and engaging storytelling ensures that the book never feels dry or academic. Instead, it remains an engaging narrative that captivates the reader from start to finish.

However, it is worth noting that Kipling’s speculations about the inspirations behind The Tempest are purely fictional, and should be taken with a grain of salt. While they provide fascinating insights into the creative process, readers should remember that they are the product of Kipling’s imagination rather than historical facts. For those seeking a more concrete understanding of Shakespeare’s life and works, supplemental sources may be necessary.

In conclusion, How Shakspere Came to Write the Tempest is a well-crafted and enlightening exploration of the origins of one of Shakespeare’s most enduring plays. Kipling’s evocative prose and meticulous research bring the Elizabethan age to life, offering readers a deeper appreciation for the complex themes and influences at work in The Tempest. This book is a compelling read for Shakespeare enthusiasts and anyone interested in the creative process of one of history’s greatest playwrights.

First Page:

How Shakspere Came to Write the ‘Tempest’

PUBLICATIONS of the Dramatic Museum OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK

Third Series

Papers on Playmaking:

I HOW SHAKSPERE CAME TO WRITE THE ‘TEMPEST’. By Rudyard Kipling. With an introduction by Ashley H. Thorndike.

II HOW PLAYS ARE WRITTEN. Letters from Augier, Dumas, Sardou, Zola and others. Translated by Dudley Miles. With an introduction by William Gillette.

III A STAGE PLAY. By Sir William Schenck Gilbert. With an introduction by William Archer.

IV A THEORY OF THE THEATER. By Francisque Sarcey. Translated by H. H. Hughes. With an introduction and notes by Brander Matthews.

V (Extra volume) A catalog of Models and of Stage Sets in the Dramatic Museum of Columbia University.

PAPERS ON PLAYMAKING

I

How Shakspere Came to Write the ‘Tempest’

BY RUDYARD KIPLING

WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY ASHLEY H. THORNDIKE

Printed for the Dramatic Museum of Columbia University in the City of New York MCMXVI

INTRODUCTION AND NOTES COPYRIGHT 1916 BY DRAMATIC MUSEUM OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

CONTENTS

Introduction by Ashley H. Thorndike 1

How Shakspere Came to Write the ‘Tempest’ 23