Shakespeare Scandals We Don't Learn in High School

William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright of the Elizabethan era, is often celebrated for his poetic genius and profound understanding of the human condition. However, beneath the surface of his illustrious career lie some truly bizarre and scandalous incidents that are seldom discussed in high school classrooms. That’s why we’re going to explore five crazy scandals associated with Shakespeare that add a surprising twist to his legacy. From alleged cross-dressing performances to an unorthodox burial, these scandals shed light on the unconventional aspects of Shakespeare's life and career, challenging the traditional perception of the Bard of Avon.

1. The Cross-Dressing Controversy

During the Elizabethan era, all the female roles in Shakespeare's plays were performed by young boys, as women were not allowed to act on stage. However, there is evidence suggesting that in some cases, Shakespeare himself may have donned women's clothing and taken on female roles. One theory suggests that he played the role of Lady Macbeth in the original performances of "Macbeth." The idea of Shakespeare cross-dressing for his own plays adds an intriguing layer to his theatrical career. It raises questions about his acting abilities, his willingness to push boundaries, and the extent to which he immersed himself in the characters he created. While concrete proof is lacking, the possibility of Shakespeare himself portraying some of his iconic female characters adds a touch of theatrical eccentricity to his already remarkable legacy.

2. The Anne Hathaway Conspiracy

Shakespeare's marriage to Anne Hathaway has long been a subject of speculation and controversy. One scandalous theory proposes that Shakespeare was forced into a shotgun wedding with Anne due to her pregnancy, which would explain their relatively hasty marriage. Some even suggest that the pregnancy was the result of an illicit affair, casting doubt on the legitimacy of their union. While it is true that Shakespeare and Anne married when he was 18 and she was 26, making her several years older than him, there is no concrete evidence to support the scandalous claims. The theory may have originated from the desire to create a dramatic backstory for Shakespeare's personal life. 

3. The Green Children of Woolpit

An unusual incident indirectly associated with Shakespeare occurred during his lifetime in the village of Woolpit, Suffolk. According to legend, two green-skinned children mysteriously appeared near the village. The siblings, a brother and sister, spoke an unknown language and refused to eat anything except beans. Over time, they adapted to their surroundings, lost their green hue, and learned English. While this event predates Shakespeare's birth, it became a popular subject of discussion during his lifetime. Some suggest that the story of the green children inspired Shakespeare to write "The Tempest," a play that features themes of magical transformations and encounters with otherworldly beings. The parallels between the Woolpit legend and the fantastical elements in "The Tempest" make for a curious and whimsical connection between the real and theatrical worlds.

4. The Stolen Skull of Shakespeare

Shakespeare's final resting place in Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon, became the center of a peculiar scandal in 1794. The grave was disturbed by a group of enthusiastic admirers who were determined to obtain a relic from the revered playwright. In their quest for a memento, the grave robbers stole Shakespeare's skull. The stolen skull became the subject of much debate and speculation, with several claims made about its whereabouts. One popular theory suggested that it had been interred in a family vault, while others speculated that it had been secretly returned to Shakespeare's grave. Despite numerous investigations and searches, the true fate of Shakespeare's skull remains unknown, leaving the scandal as an unsolved mystery.

5. The Curse of Macbeth and "The Scottish Play"

One of the most notorious scandals associated with Shakespeare is the curse believed to be associated with his play "Macbeth." According to theatrical tradition, uttering the name "Macbeth" inside a theater is considered bad luck. To avoid invoking the curse, actors often refer to the play as "the Scottish play." Legend has it that the curse originated from the inclusion of authentic witchcraft spells and rituals in the play. It is said that the supernatural elements invoked during performances brought misfortune upon the actors and production. The curse of Macbeth is taken so seriously that there are rituals to counteract it, including spinning around three times, spitting over the shoulder, or reciting lines from other Shakespearean plays.