“Sonnet 116” by William Shakespeare, often recited at weddings for its themes of commitment and devotion, may have held a different significance during the English Civil Wars of the mid-1600s.
Research published recently in The Review of English Studies by Leah Veronese from Oxford highlights a rare, handwritten version of the poem found in an archive. This adaptation suggests that Shakespeare’s work was repurposed to reflect the political climate of the time, particularly the conflict between royalists and parliamentarians.
Experts, including Columbia University professor James Shapiro, expressed excitement over the discovery, noting it as an early example of how Shakespeare's writings were adapted to suit different political contexts. The newly discovered version of the sonnet features altered opening and closing lines, as well as seven additional lines, emphasizing themes of political loyalty rather than romantic love.
Dr. Veronese located this variant in the papers of Elias Ashmole, a royalist supporter born in 1617, and it was accompanied by other politically charged works from the 1640s. The poem had also been set to music by composer Henry Lawes, despite the Republican regime's ban on public performances.
Shapiro remarked that what was once a playful love poem had been transformed to resonate with individuals in the midst of a civil war, where loved ones were engaged in combat. The opening lines of the sonnet, traditionally associated with marriage, take on a more righteous tone in this adaptation.
Professor Michael Dobson from the Shakespeare Institute noted that the language of devotion in both love and politics is often similar, suggesting that this adaptation reflects an enduring theme of loyalty. The additional lines in the variant were likely intended to enhance its musicality but could also be interpreted as appeals to political and religious allegiance.
The adaptation raises questions about the nature of loyalty and the implications of abandoning monarchical support during turbulent times. It remains unclear whether this version is a draft by Shakespeare or a subsequent adaptation.
The discovery indicates that Shakespeare's sonnets, initially published in 1609 and largely overlooked for centuries, had a more significant impact than previously believed. While interest in the sonnets surged in the late 1700s, this finding suggests that at least one individual recognized their value during the 1600s.
Ultimately, this variation exemplifies Shakespeare's ability to adapt and resonate across different eras, reinforcing his enduring relevance from the political struggles of 17th-century Britain to contemporary wedding ceremonies.