Shakespearean Vocabulary Terms to Know for Shakespeare Studies

Shakespearean vocabulary is rich and unique, filled with words that convey deep emotions and relationships. Understanding terms like "thou," "wherefore," and "anon" helps us appreciate the characters' feelings and the urgency of their situations in his plays.

1. Thou/Thee/Thy/Thine

   • "Thou" is the singular form of "you," used for addressing someone directly.
   • "Thee" is the objective form of "thou," used when the person is the object of a verb or preposition.
   • "Thy" is the possessive form of "thou," equivalent to "your."
   • "Thine" is used before a vowel sound or to indicate possession, similar to "yours."
   • These forms reflect a more intimate or familiar tone compared to the plural "you."

2. Wherefore

   • Commonly misunderstood as "where," it actually means "why."
   • Often used in philosophical or rhetorical contexts to question motives or reasons.
   • Famous usage in "Romeo and Juliet" when Juliet asks, "Wherefore art thou Romeo?" indicating a search for understanding.
   • Highlights the depth of character emotions and motivations in Shakespeare's works.

3. Anon

   • Means "soon" or "shortly," indicating that something will happen in the near future.
   • Frequently used to create a sense of urgency or anticipation in dialogue.
   • Reflects the pacing and timing of events in Shakespearean plays.
   • Can also imply a promise of return or continuation of a conversation.

4. Hark

   • An imperative verb meaning "listen" or "pay attention."
   • Used to draw the audience's or characters' focus to something important.
   • Often precedes significant revelations or dramatic moments in the text.
   • Enhances the auditory experience of the play, emphasizing key dialogue.

5. Forsooth

   • An archaic term meaning "indeed" or "truly," often used to affirm a statement.
   • Adds a layer of sincerity or gravity to the speaker's words.
   • Frequently found in comedic contexts, highlighting irony or exaggeration.
   • Reflects the formal and elevated language of the time.

6. Methinks

   • Means "it seems to me" or "I think," expressing personal opinion or perception.
   • Used to convey subjective thoughts or feelings of characters.
   • Often indicates introspection or contemplation within the dialogue.
   • Highlights the complexity of character emotions and perspectives.

7. Prithee

   • A contraction of "I pray thee," meaning "I ask you" or "please."
   • Used to make a request or plea, often in a polite or earnest manner.
   • Reflects the social customs of politeness and deference in Elizabethan society.
   • Adds a layer of urgency or emotional weight to the speaker's request.

8. Aye

   • Means "yes," used to express agreement or affirmation.
   • Often found in formal or serious contexts, such as oaths or declarations.
   • Can also imply a sense of loyalty or commitment to a cause or person.
   • Reflects the binary nature of decision-making in Shakespearean drama.

9. Nay

   • Means "no," used to express disagreement or refusal.
   • Often employed in contrast to "aye," highlighting opposing viewpoints.
   • Can convey a sense of finality or determination in a character's response.
   • Reflects the tension and conflict present in many of Shakespeare's plays.

10. Ere

    • Means "before," used to indicate time or sequence.
    • Often found in poetic or dramatic contexts to enhance the rhythm of the language.
    • Can imply urgency or the need to act before a certain moment.
    • Reflects the temporal themes present in Shakespeare's narratives.

11. Hither/Thither

    • "Hither" means "to this place," while "thither" means "to that place."
    • Used to indicate direction or movement, often in a more formal or poetic manner.
    • Enhances the imagery of travel or transition within the narrative.
    • Reflects the spatial dynamics of characters' interactions and journeys.

12. Alas

    • An exclamation expressing sorrow, regret, or concern.
    • Often used to convey emotional weight or tragedy in a character's situation.
    • Highlights the dramatic elements of loss or despair in Shakespeare's works.
    • Serves to engage the audience's empathy and emotional response.

13. Verily

    • Means "truly" or "certainly," used to affirm the truth of a statement.
    • Adds a sense of gravity or sincerity to the speaker's words.
    • Often found in serious or formal declarations, enhancing the weight of the dialogue.
    • Reflects the importance of truth and honesty in character interactions.

14. Betwixt

    • Means "between," used to indicate a position or relationship involving two entities.
    • Often employed in discussions of conflict, choice, or duality.
    • Enhances the complexity of relationships and themes in Shakespearean drama.
    • Reflects the nuanced nature of human interactions and decisions.

15. Mayhap

    • Means "perhaps" or "maybe," indicating uncertainty or possibility.
    • Used to express doubt or speculation in a character's thoughts or dialogue.
    • Adds a layer of ambiguity to the narrative, reflecting the unpredictability of life.
    • Highlights the themes of fate and chance present in Shakespeare's works.