How Was Shakespeare’s Name Spelled?

Although the name is now a household one, ‘Shakespeare’ is not a particularly common or easy to spell name. Over the years there have been a number of variations in the spelling of ‘Shakespeare’, as well as some ridiculous mispells. But do bear in mind that back in Shakespeare’s day there wasn’t actually such a thing as a standard spelling rule – it was a case of spelling words as they sounded. So, among the most common spellings of Shakespeare over the years were:

  • Shakespere
  • Shackspeare
  • Shakespear
  • Shakspere
  • Shaxspere
  • Shaxper
  • Shakspeare
  • Shackespeare
  • Shackspere
  • Shackespere

 

Shakespeare's signature
Shakespeare’s signature on his will

 

2 thoughts on “How Was Shakespeare’s Name Spelled?”

  1. It’s fascinating to see the various historical spellings of Shakespeare’s name. The lack of standard spelling rules back then really highlights the phonetic approach. It adds a unique layer to understanding the era and Shakespeare himself.

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