Home / Arts and Entertainment / Shakespeare's Will: A Will of Contention?
Shakespeare's Will: A Will of Contention?
2 Nov
Summary
- Shakespeare bequeathed his wife their second-best bed.
- The bed was likely the couple's nightly sleeping place.
- The bequest was a last-minute addition to his will.
William Shakespeare's final testament, signed just 29 days before his death on April 23, 1616, contains a curious bequest to his wife, Anne Hathaway. The notorious line states: "Item I gyve unto my wiefe my second best bed with the furniture." This has led many to question the nature of their relationship.
While seemingly unromantic, the "second best bed" was likely the one the couple used nightly, unlike the grander, showpiece bed. This was an important household item in Elizabethan England. The bequest might hold more significance than initially perceived.
Further analysis of the original document by The National Archives revealed this specific bequest was a last-minute addition. This suggests it was a considered item, added as Shakespeare's health declined, similar to mourning rings for friends, indicating personal affection.
