International Shakespeare and The Winter's Tale

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to put Shakespeare in context, not just as an English writer but as an international one. His international impact begins during his lifetime, partly as a result of English actors on the continent and partly as a result of Shakespeare’s own choice of subject matter. He drew on stories and histories from many countries beyond his own, and he was influence by what was happening outside of England. One indication of Shakespeare’s importance as an international writer is the ongoing struggle for “ownership” of the Bard. As a cultural icon, he has been attacked, defended, almost worshiped, and very nearly confiscated.