ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at how Shakespeare’s language was regarded in the seventeenth century. It considers how views about language were changing at the time, particularly with a growing distaste for figurative and rhetorical expression. The linguistic tastes of the Royal Society are described; then how these tastes affected the reputation of Shakespeare. Jonson and Dryden’s criticisms of Shakespeare’s language are detailed, though it is emphasized that despite criticisms, these authors had an overall respect for the dramatist. The views of Rymer’s are also described; in his case the criticisms were not accompanied by any real respect. Seventeenth-century adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays are then examined in detail, showing how the new views about good language practice are reflected in changes made to Shakespeare’s texts.
