02349cam a22003013u 4500 2431 UtSlPG 20260610133058.0 m cr n 260607r2000||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PR Twain, Mark, 1835-1910 Is Shakespeare Dead? : From My Autobiography Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2000 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 2000-12-01 Transcribed from the 1909 Harper & Brothers edition by David Price. Proofing by Alan Ross, Ana Charlton and David "Is Shakespeare Dead?" by Mark Twain is a reflective and satirical treatise on the authorship of Shakespeare’s works, written during the early 20th century. In this work, Twain grapples with long-standing debates over who truly wrote the plays attributed to Shakespeare, questioning the historical record and delving into the inconsistencies surrounding the poet's life. The narrative combines Twain's autobiographical anecdotes with a sharp critique of literary pretensions and the human tendency to believe in grand claims without substantial evidence. The opening of the book introduces Twain's perspective on the elusive nature of historical truths, particularly regarding Shakespeare. He shares recollections of discussions with a passionate pilot named Ealer, who held firm beliefs about Shakespeare's authorship, which Twain initially supported. However, as the dialogue progresses, Twain's skepticism grows, leading him to adopt a more nuanced stance. He reflects on the contradictions in Shakespeare's background and the scant evidence of his literary genius, positing that the legendary figure may not have penned such profound works. This mix of humor and critique sets the stage for Twain's examination of the broader implications of literary legends and the nature of belief itself. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 -- Authorship -- Baconian theory https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2431 44512 44512