What Are the 17 Comedies Shakespeare Wrote?
William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language, has made an indelible mark on the world of literature. While his plays are categorized into various genres—tragedies, histories, and comedies—his comedies, in particular, showcase his skill at blending humor, wit, and deep insights into human nature. These plays often explore themes of love, mistaken identity, and the complexities of human relationships, all while maintaining a lighter, often whimsical tone.
Shakespeare wrote a total of 17 comedies, many of which have become staples of the theatrical canon. Below, we explore each of these plays, their key themes, and notable examples of their humor.
1. The Comedy of Errors (1594)
Shakespeare’s shortest play, The Comedy of Errors, is a fast-paced farce about two sets of identical twins who are separated at birth and unknowingly end up in the same city. Their comedic misadventures lead to mistaken identities, slapstick humor, and confusion. The play is an excellent example of Shakespeare’s early use of farcical elements.
Example: The confusion between the characters Antipholus and Dromio of Ephesus and their twin counterparts, Antipholus and Dromio of Syracuse, leads to a series of hilarious confrontations and misunderstandings.
2. The Taming of the Shrew (1593-1594)
One of Shakespeare’s most controversial comedies, The Taming of the Shrew, centers on the fiery and strong-willed Katharina, and her suitor, Petruchio, who is determined to “tame” her unruly nature. The play explores themes of marriage, gender roles, and power dynamics in relationships.
Example: The humorous battle of wits between Katharina and Petruchio, especially when Petruchio insists that the sun is the moon, leads to one of the play’s most famous comedic moments.
3. Love’s Labour’s Lost (1594-1595)
In Love’s Labour’s Lost, the King of Navarre and his companions swear off women to focus on their studies, but their resolve is tested when they meet a group of ladies who are just as witty and clever as they are. This comedy focuses on the theme of love and the folly of trying to control it.
Example: The humorous wordplay and misunderstandings between the characters, especially the comical attempts to win the affections of the women, highlight Shakespeare’s love of linguistic play.
4. A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1595-1596)
This beloved comedy blends fantasy and reality as a group of Athenian lovers and amateur actors find themselves tangled in the magical world of the fairy king and queen. The play explores love, jealousy, and the effects of magic, all while providing delightful comedic moments.
Example: The character of Bottom, who is transformed into a donkey and becomes the object of Titania’s affection, provides one of the play’s most memorable and humorous moments.
5. The Merchant of Venice (1596-1597)
The Merchant of Venice is a comedy that touches on serious issues such as mercy, justice, and prejudice. The play centers on the merchant Antonio, his friend Bassanio, and the Jewish moneylender Shylock. Although it includes moments of deep reflection, the comedic elements lie in the clever twists and resolutions.
Example: The trial scene, where Portia disguises herself as a lawyer and outwits Shylock, provides a perfect example of Shakespeare’s blend of legal drama and comedy.
6. Much Ado About Nothing (1598)
This play focuses on two couples: the witty Beatrice and Benedick, and the more traditional Hero and Claudio. It explores themes of love, deception, and the misunderstandings that arise from gossip and trickery.
Example: The comedic banter between Beatrice and Benedick, particularly when they are tricked into confessing their love for each other, is a central highlight of the play.
7. As You Like It (1599)
In As You Like It, Shakespeare explores the theme of love and the role of identity, as characters escape to the Forest of Arden, where they assume different identities and experience love in unexpected ways. The character of Rosalind is one of Shakespeare’s most famous heroines.
Example: Rosalind’s witty use of disguise and wordplay, especially when she interacts with Orlando in the forest, creates many moments of humor.
8. Twelfth Night (1601)
Twelfth Night is a comedy of mistaken identities, gender roles, and unrequited love. Viola, disguised as Cesario, becomes the object of Duke Orsino’s affection, while Olivia falls in love with Cesario, not knowing that it’s actually Viola in disguise.
Example: The character of Malvolio, who is tricked into believing that Olivia loves him, leads to a series of humorous situations, including his comically absurd attempts to woo her.
9. All’s Well That Ends Well (1602-1603)
This play tells the story of Helena, who wins the heart of the reluctant Bertram through cleverness and determination. It combines elements of romance and comedy, with an emphasis on the theme of merit and deserving love.
Example: The humorous situations surrounding Bertram’s resistance to Helena’s advances, and the eventual resolution, make for a satisfying yet comedic conclusion.
10. Measure for Measure (1604)
Measure for Measure explores themes of justice, morality, and corruption. While the play is often categorized as a “problem play” due to its darker themes, it contains elements of comedy, especially through the character of Pompey and the Duke’s disguised manipulation of the situation.
Example: The Duke’s clever manipulation of the characters and his comic antics in disguise provide humorous relief in an otherwise serious context.
11. The Winter’s Tale (1609-1611)
This late comedy is often considered a “romance,” blending elements of comedy with tragedy. The play follows the story of King Leontes, who wrongly accuses his wife of infidelity, and the eventual reconciliation and reunion of his family.
Example: The character of Autolycus, a roguish peddler, provides much of the comic relief with his humorous antics and witty dialogue.
12. The Two Gentlemen of Verona (1590-1591)
This early comedy centers on the friendship and rivalry between two young men, Valentine and Proteus, and their love interests. It explores themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal.
Example: The comic misunderstandings and antics surrounding Proteus’ romantic pursuits and his treatment of his best friend Valentine create much of the humor in the play.
13. Taming of the Shrew (1594)
While already mentioned in this list, The Taming of the Shrew also focuses on the humor of power struggles within relationships, particularly as it explores gender roles and societal expectations.
14. Cymbeline (1609-1610)
Cymbeline is often classified as a tragicomedy, mixing elements of both tragedy and comedy. It deals with mistaken identities and miscommunications, leading to comedic situations before ultimately ending on a happy note.
Example: The scenes where characters believe Imogen is dead, only to discover she is alive, provide both suspense and humor in the narrative.
15. King Lear (1605-1606)
While primarily a tragedy, King Lear contains comic relief, particularly in the characters of the Fool and the scenes involving the mad king’s descent into folly.
16. A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1595)
As already discussed, this fantasy comedy captures Shakespeare’s genius for mixing lighthearted humor with enchanting dreamlike qualities.
17. The Tempest (1611)
In The Tempest, though it leans more into the romance genre, there are several comedic moments, especially through the character of Caliban and the antics of Stephano and Trinculo. The magic, mistaken identities, and eventual reconciliation with the plot give way to humor alongside the serious.
Conclusion
The 17 comedies written by William Shakespeare provide a rich variety of themes and comedic styles, from light farce to more intricate, character-driven humor. Shakespeare’s comedies remain relevant today, with their timeless exploration of human nature and social dynamics still resonating with audiences. The clever wordplay, mistaken identities, and entertaining characters will continue to ensure the lasting appeal of these remarkable works.
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