Welcome, dear reader, to this delightful guide on how to express the word “will” in the magnificent world of Shakespearean language. Shakespeare, the greatest playwright of the English Renaissance, has gifted us with a rich lexicon that still captivates hearts and minds today. In this guide, we shall explore various formal and informal ways to convey “will” in Shakespearean English.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions of “Will”
Let us begin with a selection of formal ways to express “will” in Shakespearean language. These variations can be employed in more dignified or eloquent contexts:
1. Shall
One of the most common and elegant substitutes for “will” in Shakespearean English is “shall.” It carries a sense of obligation or determination. Consider this example from King Lear: “Shall we not see these daughters and these sisters?”
2. Art
When addressing someone in the second person, “art” can be used instead of “are” plus “will.” This form is not commonly used in modern English but adds a touch of antiquated charm. As in “Thou art a masterful poet, and I art grateful for thy words.”
3. Wilt
“Wilt” is a poetic variant of “will” used when addressing a singular person in the second person. It denotes desire, intention, or determination. Imagine a Romeo expressing his ardent love for Juliet, saying, “Fair Juliet, wilt thou be mine?”
4. Willeth
A more archaic form of “will” found in Shakespeare’s works is “willeth.” This variant adds a touch of grandeur or formality to the verb. For instance, “He who willeth success must persevere.”
Informal Expressions of “Will”
Now, let’s explore some informal ways to express “will” in a more familiar or colloquial manner, perfect for light-hearted conversations or comedic scenes:
1. Will’n
Derived from “will” and the contraction “-en,” “will’n” captures a playful, abbreviated form. It is often used in dialogues or as part of idiomatic expressions. For instance, “I’ll will’n it to be so, come what may!”
2. Wot
“Wot” is a delightful variant of “will” that adds a dash of whimsy and charm to Shakespearean English. It suggests a sense of knowledge or certainty. An example can be found in A Midsummer Night’s Dream: “Wot you what, my lord?”
3. ‘Gin
Used in a similar vein as “gonna” in modern English, “‘gin” represents a contracted version of “will begin.” It conveys the sense of starting or commencing an action. For example, “We ‘gin our journey at first light.”
Regional Variations
Although Shakespearean English is primarily associated with the London dialect of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, regional variations were present. While not directly tied to “will,” it is interesting to note some dialectal diversity within Shakespeare’s works:
1. Ye
In northern England, the pronoun “you” was commonly replaced with “ye.” This substitution can be seen throughout Shakespeare’s plays when addressing multiple individuals. Example: “Hark ye, good sirs! We are ye humble players.”
2. Dost
The southwestern and northern dialects of England employed “dost” as a variant of “do” when combined with “thou.” It can also be linked to the regional use of “wilt.” For instance, “Why dost thou look at me so fiercely?”
“To be, or not to be, that is the question.”
– Hamlet
Now, dear reader, equipped with these wondrous expressions of “will” in Shakespearean language, you can confidently traverse the realm of his plays and poetry. Let the richness of his words transport you through time and immerse you in the beauty of Elizabethan English. Whether you choose the formal elegance of “shall” or the whimsical informality of “‘gin,” rejoice in the beauty and versatility of Shakespearean language!
