Early Modern English Exemplified in Shakespeares Hamlet,...

Early Modern English Exemplified in Shakespeares Hamlet, Act V Scene 1 The period of Early Modern English occurred from approximately Fifteen Hundred to some time between Sixteen Fifty and Sixteen Seventy. While this period was characterized mostly by the translation of texts from other languages into English, the language saw its first prominent writer in William Shakespeare contribute works of literary significance to the world. Hamlet Prince of Denmark, in its abbreviated, performed version, was originally included in the quarto of 1603. The current version of the text is based on the 1604-05 version of the text, which is believed to be printed from Shakespeares own draft (Farnham). Lines 241-280 of Act V scene 1 in Hamlet are an†¦show more content†¦The majority of the words in this section of Hamlet are used widespread and even at present; however, there are several words that appear unfamiliar. The online version of the Oxford English Diction provides these words meanings: splenitive, of fiery temper; prate, speaking much or long to littl e purpose; pate, the head as intellect; esil, vinegar; anon, meaning now, at this time, as opposed to the chronological orientation of at that time. Finding how Shakespeare employs these terms greatly improves comprehension, especially of lines such as 267-269: And if thou prate of mountains, let them throw/Millions of acres on us, till our ground,/Singeing his pate against the burning zone which theatre-goers and readers of his time would likely have understood. Two words in lines 261-262 are especially absent from modern usage: Swounds is a euphemistic abbreviation of Gods wounds (OED) and woot is a contraction of wilt thou. Swounds is consistent with the religious presence in the plays dialogue that also includes devil and God; while Hamlets is not a religious theme, there are several Christian references, and a scene where a character (the King of Denmark) is seen praying. These examples are indicative of the cultures value of religion during Shakespeares life. During the Early Modern English period, the European Renaissance occurred: the culture valued the classic period ofShow MoreRelatedâ€Å"the Spirit of Renaissance and Elizabethan Era†5448 Words   |  22 PagesThe English Renaissance was a cultural and artistic movement in England dating from the early 16th century to the early 17th century. It is associated with the pan-European Renaissance that many cultural historians believe originated in Tuscany in the 14th century. This era in English cultural history is sometimes referred to as the age of Shakespeare or the Elizabethan era, the first period in English and British history to be named after a reigning monarch. Renaissance literally means