History comes from the playwright’s pen, and it can offer glimpses of life through ancient eyes. There are countless period plays, but all plays written show audiences a view of the period they were written in as interpreted by the playwright. Deciphering those historical elements can be simpler than it may seem.

William Shakespeare is a widely recognized playwright, but many of his works actually give historical perspective to the time period in which he lived. Since Shakespeare lived during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, the last sovereign of the House of Tudor, his plays offer a first-hand perception on life and social commentary during that long ago dynasty. The play Richard III portrays the inception of the House of Tudor and clearly offers opinions to its history. By negatively depicting members of the House of York while hailing Henry VII, the founder of the Tudor dynasty, Shakespeare seems to give an indication of the general feeling toward the monarchy.

Additional indicators permeate Shakespeare’s work giving voice to a general mindset and people of a time period that has long past. Evidence of social commentary is present in most playwrights’ work and can be referenced for their historical viewpoints.