What is National Talk Like Shakespeare Day?

National Talk Like Shakespeare Day is celebrated annually on April 23 in the United States. This lighthearted event encourages people to speak in the style of William Shakespeare, using words and phrases from his famous works. The date was chosen because it marks both the birth and death anniversary of Shakespeare, one of the most influential figures in English literature.

The day is meant to make Shakespeare’s language more accessible and fun. By using Elizabethan English, people can engage with his works in a creative way, whether through conversation, writing, or performance. Schools, theaters, and literature enthusiasts use the occasion to explore Shakespeare’s influence on modern English and to celebrate the beauty of his storytelling.

History and Origin

Talk Like Shakespeare Day was created in 2009 by the Chicago Shakespeare Theater as a way to make the playwright’s language more engaging for modern audiences. Inspired by other themed language days, like Talk Like a Pirate Day, it quickly gained popularity across schools, theaters, and social media.

Shakespeare’s impact on the English language is enormous, with many of his phrases still used today. Expressions such as “wild-goose chase,” “break the ice,” and “all’s well that ends well” come directly from his plays. Talk Like Shakespeare Day encourages people to appreciate these contributions by actively using them in speech and writing.

Who Celebrates Talk Like Shakespeare Day?

• Theater Groups and Actors: Perform Shakespearean plays, sonnets, or improvisations.
• Schools and Literature Enthusiasts: Organize Shakespeare-themed lessons, readings, and creative writing activities.
• Lovers of Language and Wordplay: Have fun using Shakespearean expressions in daily conversations.
• Libraries and Bookstores: Host events, readings, and workshops about Shakespeare’s influence.
• Social Media Users: Share famous Shakespeare quotes and phrases using themed hashtags.

Slogans and Themes

Talk Like Shakespeare Day is about celebrating language, creativity, and humor. Popular slogans include “To Speak or Not to Speak;That is the Question,” “Hark! It Be Shakespeare Day!” and “Dost Thou Wish to Celebrate the Bard?” Themes often revolve around storytelling, poetic expression, and the lasting impact of Shakespeare’s words.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Royal purple: Represents the nobility and grandeur of Shakespeare’s works.
• Gold: Symbolizes the timeless value of his literary contributions.
• Deep red: Reflects the drama and passion found in his plays.

Symbols

• Quill and parchment: Represents Shakespeare’s writing and poetry.
• Theater masks: Symbolize the comedic and tragic elements of his plays.
• Globe Theatre: Pays homage to the famous London theater where many of his plays were performed.

Patterns

• Scroll and script designs: Reflect the handwritten manuscripts of the time.
• Tudor-style motifs: Capture the aesthetic of Shakespeare’s era.
• Stage curtain patterns: Represent the theatrical nature of his works.

How to Celebrate Talk Like Shakespeare Day

• Speak in Shakespearean English: Use words like “thou,” “thee,” and “verily” in everyday conversations.
• Quote Shakespeare: Share famous lines from his plays and sonnets.
• Watch a Shakespearean Play: Attend a live performance or watch a classic adaptation.
• Write a Sonnet: Try composing a poem in Shakespearean style.
• Dress in Elizabethan Fashion: Wear ruffled collars, doublets, or gowns for a fun, historical touch.

Most Used Hashtags

• #TalkLikeShakespeareDay
• #ShakespeareDay
• #BardOfAvon
• #TheeAndThou
• #ToBeOrNotToBe

Why is Talk Like Shakespeare Day Important?

Talk Like Shakespeare Day makes the playwright’s works more engaging and fun while promoting appreciation for literature and theater. By encouraging people to speak like the Bard, it brings his language to life and highlights the influence he still has on modern English. It also fosters creativity, humor, and a deeper connection to the richness of storytelling and performance.