What Was the Religion of Shakespeare?

"What Was the Religion of Shakespeare?" by M. M. Mangasarian is a philosophical examination of William Shakespeare's religious beliefs, articulated in the form of a lecture delivered in the early 20th century. This book delves into the complexities of Shakespeare's views on religion, positing that the playwright's works reflect a naturalistic and rationalist philosophy rather than adherence to conventional supernatural faiths. Written in the early 1900s, it serves as a critical analysis of Shakespeare's writings against the backdrop of the religious discourse of his time. In this text, Mangasarian argues that Shakespeare's works indicate a skepticism towards traditional religious doctrines and supernatural interpretations of existence. He explores various critical perspectives on Shakespeare's belief—or lack thereof—in Christianity and other organized religions, suggesting that Shakespeare transcends these categories by espousing a general ethic rooted in humanity's goodness, beauty, and truth. Through careful analysis of passages from plays like "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Romeo and Juliet," Mangasarian asserts that Shakespeare embraces a humanistic worldview where individual agency, rather than divine providence, shapes human destiny. This portrayal illuminates Shakespeare not as an irreligious figure, but as one who fosters a philosophy grounded in naturalism and moral integrity.

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