If you enjoy reading books by William Shakespeare then you might also like the following authors:
Christopher Marlowe was a contemporary of Shakespeare and one of his chief rivals. His plays, such as “Doctor Faustus,” feature complex characters and tragic themes, much like Shakespeare’s work.
Marlowe’s use of blank verse and his explorations of the darker sides of ambition and power will appeal to fans of Shakespearean drama.
Ben Jonson, another contemporary of Shakespeare, was known for his satirical comedies and well-crafted dramas.
He was a leading playwright of the English Renaissance, and his plays often center on classical themes and human follies, akin to the more comedic works of Shakespeare.
Thomas Kyd, best known for “The Spanish Tragedy,” helped popularize the revenge tragedy genre. His intense, action-packed plots and dark themes resonate with fans of Shakespeare’s more dramatic plays, such as “Hamlet.”
John Webster is celebrated for his dark and brooding tragedies like “The Duchess of Malfi.” His works are known for their complex characters and exploration of corruption and madness, similar to Shakespeare’s darker plays.
Lope de Vega was a Spanish playwright who authored an astounding number of plays—around 1,800. His works, characterized by rich themes, dynamic characters, and romantic elements, mirror the style and structure of Shakespeare’s plays.
Thomas Middleton often collaborated with Shakespeare and wrote compelling plays with intricate plots and dark humor. His play “The Changeling” is a hallmark of his style, with themes of deceit and madness akin to those found in Shakespeare’s works.
Although primarily known for his poetry, Edmund Spenser’s narrative capacity and imaginative storytelling in works like “The Faerie Queene” echo the poetic and creative flair found in Shakespeare’s writing. His use of allegory enriches readers’ experience similarly to Shakespeare’s exploration of human nature.
Francesco Petrarch laid the groundwork for Renaissance humanism and was a significant influence on English literature, including Shakespeare. His passionate sonnets about love and the human condition will resonate with fans of Shakespeare’s romantic and philosophical explorations.
Best known for “Don Quixote,” Miguel de Cervantes explores themes of illusion versus reality and human folly, much like Shakespeare. His richly developed characters and satirical style make his works enjoyable for those who appreciate Shakespearean depth and humor.
George Chapman was an Elizabethan dramatist known for his translations of Homer’s works and original plays like “Bussy D’Ambois.” His rich language and complex characters make his storytelling reminiscent of Shakespeare’s narrative style.
A French playwright, Pierre Corneille is famous for his classical tragedies and comedies, much like Shakespeare. His play “Le Cid” explores themes such as honor and love, providing a blend of humor and drama similar to what Shakespeare fans enjoy.
Jean Racine, a master of French classical tragedy, wrote plays infused with emotional intensity and moral complexity. His exploration of the human psyche and simple yet powerful dialogue are akin to the psychological depth found in Shakespeare’s tragedies.
Molière is celebrated for his comedic plays, which criticize societal norms with wit and humor reminiscent of Shakespeare’s comedic works. His plays like “Tartuffe” offer sharp observations on human nature in a manner that Shakespeare enthusiasts will appreciate.
Aphra Behn was one of the first English women to earn a living by writing, and her plays and novels often contain sharp dialogue and vibrant characters. Her exploration of themes like gender dynamics and societal issues is similar to Shakespeare’s, offering readers a unique perspective on timeless themes.
Philip Massinger succeeded many Elizabethan playwrights and is credited with plays that exhibit social themes and moral dilemmas. His ability to weave intense emotions and skilled characterizations makes his works attractive to lovers of Shakespearean drama.