How Do You Quote Shakespeare

How Do You Quote Shakespeare? A Comprehensive Guide

Shakespeare's enduring legacy rests not only on his unparalleled storytelling and profound insights into the human condition but also on the rich tapestry of language he wove. Quoting Shakespeare correctly, however, requires navigating a nuanced landscape of textual variations, editorial choices, and established scholarly conventions. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to accurately and effectively incorporate Shakespearean quotations into your writing.

Introduction: Understanding the Challenges of Shakespearean Quotation

Quoting Shakespeare isn't as simple as picking a line and dropping it into your work. The complexities arise from several key factors:

• Multiple Editions: Shakespeare's plays and sonnets exist in numerous editions, each with slight variations in spelling, punctuation, and even wording. Choosing a source edition is crucial for consistency and accuracy.

• Modernizations: Many editions "modernize" Shakespeare's language, updating spelling and punctuation to conform to modern standards. However, this can sometimes alter the subtle nuances of the original text.

• Line Numbers and Act/Scene References: Accurate citation requires specifying the act, scene, and line numbers of the quote, allowing readers to easily locate the passage in their chosen edition.

• Contextual Understanding: Extracting a quote out of context can drastically change its meaning. Careful consideration of the surrounding lines and the overall dramatic situation is essential for accurate interpretation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Quoting Shakespeare

Here's a detailed, step-by-step approach to ensure your Shakespearean quotations are both accurate and impactful:

1. Select Your Source Edition:

Choose a reputable edition of Shakespeare's works. Popular choices include:

• The Arden Shakespeare: Known for its extensive scholarly annotations and detailed textual notes.
• The Oxford Shakespeare: Another highly regarded edition with insightful editorial commentary.
• The Norton Shakespeare: A widely used edition suitable for both scholarly and general readers.

Consistency is key. Once you've selected an edition, stick with it throughout your work to maintain uniformity.

2. Locate the Quote and Record the Citation:

Carefully locate the exact quote you wish to use. Note the following information:

• Play Title: (e.g., Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet)
• Act Number: (e.g., Act I, Act III)
• Scene Number: (e.g., Scene i, Scene v)
• Line Numbers: (e.g., lines 120-125)

For example, a citation might look like this: Hamlet, I.ii.120-125.

3. Quote Accurately:

Transcribe the quote exactly as it appears in your chosen edition, including original spelling and punctuation. Avoid making any changes unless absolutely necessary (see below).

4. Use Ellipses Carefully:

If you need to omit parts of a quote, use ellipses (...) to indicate the omission. However, be careful not to distort the meaning by removing crucial words or phrases. Avoid using ellipses at the beginning or end of a quote unless it is clear from the context that the quote is incomplete.

5. Square Brackets for Modernizations:

If you need to add words to clarify a particularly archaic or obscure phrase, enclose these additions in square brackets [ ]. This clearly distinguishes your additions from the original text.

6. Formatting the Quote:

Integrate the quotation smoothly into your writing. Consider these formatting options:

• Short Quotations: If the quote is short (less than three lines), you can incorporate it directly into your sentence, enclosing it in quotation marks: As Hamlet famously declares, "To be or not to be, that is the question" (Hamlet, III.i.56).

• Long Quotations: For longer quotations (three lines or more), set them apart as block quotes, typically indented from the left margin and without quotation marks:

To be or not to be, that is the question: Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them. (Hamlet, III.i.56-60)

7. Provide a Full Citation:

At the end of your paper or in a footnote, provide a complete citation for your source edition, following the style guide required by your institution or publication. This allows readers to verify your quotes and consult the original text.

Addressing Specific Challenges

Dealing with Variant Readings:

Different editions may offer slightly different wordings. If you encounter significant variations, consider acknowledging them in a footnote or endnote. For example: "The Arden edition reads '…' while the Oxford edition offers '…'".

Handling Modernizations:

While many modernized editions offer ease of reading, using them for academic purposes might not be appropriate. If you are quoting from a modernized edition, clearly state this in your citation. For a formal academic paper, it is generally recommended to use a non-modernized edition.

Contextualization is Key:

Never pull a quote out of context. Always provide sufficient background information to ensure readers understand the meaning and significance of the quote within the play. Explain the speaker's motivations, the dramatic situation, and the broader themes at play.

Quoting Verse vs. Prose:

Shakespeare used both verse (poetry) and prose in his plays. Maintain the original line breaks for verse quotations, but for prose quotations, follow standard paragraph formatting.

Advanced Techniques: Analyzing and Interpreting Shakespearean Quotations

Beyond simply quoting Shakespeare, you can use quotations to support your arguments, analyze character development, or explore thematic concerns. Here are some advanced techniques:

• Close Reading: Examine the language closely, paying attention to word choice, imagery, and figurative language (metaphors, similes, etc.). What are the connotations of the words used? What is the overall tone and mood?

• Comparative Analysis: Compare different quotations from the same play or from different plays to highlight similarities or differences in themes, characterization, or language.

• Thematic Exploration: Use quotations to support your analysis of major themes in Shakespeare's works, such as love, ambition, revenge, justice, or fate.

• Character Analysis: Explore how characters are revealed through their dialogue and actions, using selected quotations as evidence.

• Rhetorical Analysis: Analyze the use of rhetorical devices (e.g., metaphors, similes, hyperbole, antithesis) to understand how Shakespeare persuades or creates specific effects on the audience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I paraphrase a Shakespearean quote instead of quoting it directly?

A: While paraphrasing can be helpful in some cases, directly quoting Shakespeare is usually preferred, especially when analyzing his unique language and style. If you must paraphrase, ensure you accurately capture the original meaning and still cite the source.

Q: What if I only want to quote a single word or phrase?

A: You can still use quotation marks for single words or phrases, as long as they are significant and require precise attribution.

Q: How do I cite Shakespeare in different citation styles (MLA, Chicago, etc.)?

A: Each citation style has its own specific requirements. Consult a style guide for the appropriate formatting.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Shakespearean Quotation

Quoting Shakespeare effectively requires care, precision, and a deep appreciation for the richness and complexity of his language. By following the steps outlined above and employing advanced analytical techniques, you can confidently and accurately integrate Shakespeare's words into your writing, enriching your work with the power and beauty of his enduring legacy. Remember, the goal is not just to quote but to illuminate, to engage the reader, and to demonstrate your understanding of the text. Each quote should serve a purpose, adding depth and insight to your analysis and arguments. Through careful attention to detail and a thoughtful approach, you can harness the enduring power of Shakespeare’s words to elevate your own writing.