The Complete Works of
William Shakespeare


William Shakespeare (1564–1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s preeminent dramatist. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, he wrote 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. His works span comedies, tragedies, and histories, including Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, and Othello. Shakespeare’s influence on literature, language, and theater is unparalleled, introducing countless words and expressions into English. His plays explore timeless themes of love, power, fate, and human nature. Despite limited biographical records, his legacy endures, with his works continuously studied, performed, and adapted worldwide.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare refers to the full collection of plays, sonnets, and poems written by the legendary playwright. His works are traditionally divided into three main categories: tragedies, comedies, and histories, along with his poetry.

I. Plays


Shakespeare’s plays encompass a vast range of human experience, exploring themes of love, power, fate, ambition, and identity. His works are traditionally divided into tragedies, comedies, and histories, each offering unique insights into human nature. His tragedies examine downfall, fate, and moral dilemmas, while his comedies celebrate love, wit, and reconciliation through humor and mistaken identities. His histories dramatize the rise and fall of kings, exploring the nature of power and leadership. Shakespeare’s mastery of language, poetic depth, and psychological complexity make his plays timeless, resonating with audiences across generations. His works continue to shape literature, theater, and our understanding of the human condition. Shakespeare wrote 39 plays, though some attributions are debated. These are the generally accepted works:

A. Tragedies 


Shakespeare’s tragedies delve into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of power, fate, betrayal, ambition, and moral corruption. His protagonists are often noble yet flawed, driven by internal struggles and external forces that lead to their downfall. These plays are marked by intense emotions, dramatic conflicts, and profound philosophical insights. Shakespeare masterfully portrays the consequences of unchecked ambition, jealousy, and revenge, making his tragedies timeless and universally relevant. Their poetic language, psychological depth, and exploration of existential themes continue to captivate audiences and shape the landscape of literature and theater.

1. Titus Andronicus (c. 1591)
Titus Andronicus is a dark and intense tragedy that explores themes of revenge, power, and the cycle of violence. Set in ancient Rome, it follows a noble general whose actions ignite a brutal conflict filled with political intrigue and personal vengeance. As tensions escalate, betrayal and ambition drive characters toward tragic consequences. The play delves into the extremes of human cruelty, justice, and the cost of retribution. With its dramatic intensity, gripping action, and unflinching portrayal of vengeance, Titus Andronicus remains one of Shakespeare’s most haunting and powerful works.

2. Romeo and Juliet (c. 1595)
Romeo and Juliet is a timeless tragedy about love, fate, and the consequences of family conflict. Set in Verona, it follows two young lovers from feuding families who are drawn together by an intense and forbidden passion. As they struggle against societal expectations and external pressures, their love is tested in ways that shape their destiny. The play explores themes of youthful idealism, the power of fate, and the impact of impulsive decisions. With its poetic language, memorable characters, and emotional intensity, Romeo and Juliet remains one of Shakespeare’s most beloved and enduring works.

3. Julius Caesar (c. 1599)
Julius Caesar is a gripping political tragedy that explores themes of power, ambition, fate, and betrayal. Set in ancient Rome, the play follows the tensions surrounding a rising leader whose growing influence sparks fear and division among those closest to him. As political intrigue unfolds, questions of loyalty, honor, and the cost of ambition take center stage. Shakespeare masterfully examines the complexities of leadership and the consequences of political decisions. With its famous speeches, intense drama, and timeless themes, Julius Caesar remains a powerful reflection on power and the forces that shape history.

4. Hamlet (c. 1600)
Hamlet is a Shakespearean tragedy that explores themes of revenge, fate, madness, and existential doubt. Set in the royal court of Denmark, the story follows Prince Hamlet as he grapples with grief, deception, and the search for truth. As he questions reality and struggles with deep philosophical conflicts, tensions rise, leading to intrigue, betrayal, and dramatic consequences. The play is renowned for its psychological depth, poetic soliloquies—such as “To be or not to be”—and its exploration of human nature. With its timeless themes and intense emotional weight, Hamlet remains one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated works.

Troilus and Cressida is a Shakespearean tragedy that blends elements of history, romance, and satire. Set during the Trojan War, it follows the love between a Trojan prince and a noblewoman, whose relationship is tested by shifting loyalties and the chaos of war. As political intrigue and personal ambition drive events, ideals of honor, love, and heroism are questioned. The play offers a cynical perspective on war and human nature, portraying legendary figures in a more flawed and complex light. With its mix of romance, dark humor, and philosophical depth, Troilus and Cressida remains one of Shakespeare’s most thought-provoking works.

6. Othello (c. 1603)
Othello is a powerful tragedy that explores themes of jealousy, trust, and manipulation. The story follows a respected military leader whose love and honor are tested by deceit. As suspicion and doubt take root, emotions spiral, leading to devastating consequences. The play delves into the complexities of human nature, the destructive power of insecurity, and the impact of betrayal. Shakespeare masterfully weaves psychological depth and dramatic tension, making Othello a timeless exploration of trust and the fragility of the human mind. Its themes remain relevant, cementing its place as one of Shakespeare’s most profound works.

7. King Lear (c. 1605)
King Lear is a profound tragedy that explores themes of power, loyalty, madness, and fate. The story follows an aging ruler who makes a fateful decision that sets off a chain of betrayal, conflict, and suffering. As relationships unravel, the play delves into the complexities of human nature, the consequences of pride, and the fragility of authority. With its intense emotional depth, poetic language, and philosophical insight, King Lear remains one of Shakespeare’s most powerful works. Its exploration of family, justice, and the limits of human wisdom continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

8. Macbeth (c. 1606)
Macbeth is a gripping tragedy about ambition, fate, and moral corruption. Set in medieval Scotland, it follows a noble warrior whose encounter with mysterious prophecies sparks an intense internal struggle. As ambition takes hold, he is drawn into a web of deception, power, and paranoia, leading to unforeseen consequences. The play explores themes of free will versus destiny, the nature of evil, and the psychological burden of guilt. With its haunting atmosphere, supernatural elements, and poetic intensity, Macbeth remains one of Shakespeare’s most powerful and enduring works, offering a timeless reflection on human nature and ambition.

Antony and Cleopatra is a Shakespearean tragedy that explores love, power, and political ambition. Set against the backdrop of ancient Rome and Egypt, it follows a Roman leader and an Egyptian queen whose passionate relationship challenges their duties and alliances. As personal desires clash with political responsibilities, they face difficult choices that shape their destinies. The play examines themes of loyalty, honor, and the struggle between reason and emotion. With its rich poetic language, dramatic tension, and complex characters, Antony and Cleopatra remains one of Shakespeare’s most compelling explorations of love and power.

10. Timon of Athens (c. 1607)
Timon of Athens is a Shakespearean tragedy that explores themes of wealth, generosity, betrayal, and isolation. The play follows a noble Athenian whose boundless generosity wins him admiration—until his fortunes change. As he faces betrayal from those he once trusted, his view of humanity shifts dramatically, leading to a profound transformation. The story examines the fickleness of friendship, the corruption of money, and the nature of true loyalty. With its sharp critique of greed and ingratitude, Timon of Athens remains a powerful reflection on human nature and society’s shifting values.

11. Coriolanus (c. 1608)
Coriolanus is a Shakespearean tragedy that explores themes of power, pride, and political conflict. The story follows a skilled but prideful Roman general whose successes on the battlefield do not translate to political favor. As tensions rise between the ruling class and the common people, personal ambition clashes with civic duty, leading to difficult choices and unforeseen consequences. The play examines the fragility of leadership, the complexities of honor, and the influence of public opinion. With its intense political intrigue and psychological depth, Coriolanus remains a thought-provoking exploration of power and identity.

B. Comedies


Shakespeare’s comedies are lively, witty, and filled with themes of love, mistaken identity, and clever wordplay. They often revolve around misunderstandings, disguises, and complex relationships, leading to humorous yet insightful explorations of human nature. These plays celebrate love, reconciliation, and the triumph of wit over conflict, often ending in marriage or restored harmony. Shakespeare masterfully blends lighthearted humor with deeper reflections on society, identity, and the complexities of relationships. His comedies remain timeless, offering both entertainment and profound commentary on the human experience.

The Taming of the Shrew is a lively comedy exploring themes of love, identity, and societal roles. It follows the courtship of a strong-willed woman and a determined suitor, leading to a battle of wits and unexpected transformations. Disguises, mistaken identities, and clever wordplay add humor to the story, while underlying themes of marriage and power dynamics create intrigue. With its fast-paced dialogue and playful tone, The Taming of the Shrew remains a fascinating and often debated Shakespearean comedy.

The Two Gentlemen of Verona is a romantic comedy exploring friendship, love, and loyalty. The play follows two close friends whose bond is tested when they both fall for the same woman, leading to betrayal, disguise, and unexpected twists. Themes of devotion, personal growth, and forgiveness shape the story as characters navigate the complexities of romance and friendship. With its blend of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, The Two Gentlemen of Verona offers an early glimpse into Shakespeare’s exploration of love and human nature.

The Comedy of Errors is a fast-paced comedy of mistaken identity, coincidence, and chaos. The play follows two sets of long-lost twins who unknowingly cross paths in the same city, leading to a whirlwind of confusion, wrongful accusations, and comedic misunderstandings. Themes of family, identity, and fate drive the story as characters struggle to make sense of the madness around them. With its witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and intricate plot twists, The Comedy of Errors remains one of Shakespeare’s most entertaining and energetic comedies.

Love’s Labour’s Lost is a witty comedy that explores love, language, and the clash between intellect and emotion. The play follows a group of noblemen who swear off romance to focus on study, only to find their vows tested when they encounter a group of clever and charming women. Filled with wordplay, misunderstandings, and playful banter, the story examines the complexities of love and the limits of human ambition. With its sharp humor and exploration of courtship and wit, Love’s Labour’s Lost remains one of Shakespeare’s most linguistically rich and amusing comedies.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a whimsical comedy that explores love, illusion, and transformation. Set in a mystical forest, the play intertwines the lives of lovers, mischievous fairies, and amateur actors, leading to humorous misunderstandings and magical encounters. Themes of love’s unpredictability, dreams versus reality, and the power of imagination are central to the story. With its enchanting atmosphere, witty dialogue, and playful exploration of romance, A Midsummer Night’s Dream remains one of Shakespeare’s most beloved and enduring comedies.

The Merchant of Venice is a complex drama blending comedy, romance, and themes of justice and mercy. The play follows a merchant who enters a risky bond to help his friend, leading to a tense legal conflict. Meanwhile, love, disguise, and clever wit shape the romantic subplot. Themes of prejudice, loyalty, and the nature of mercy are central to the story, as characters navigate both personal and societal challenges. With its mix of humor, tension, and moral dilemmas, The Merchant of Venice remains one of Shakespeare’s most thought-provoking plays.

The Merry Wives of Windsor is a lively comedy filled with wit, mischief, and clever deception. The play follows a boastful knight who schemes to court two wealthy women, only to find himself the target of their playful revenge. Themes of marriage, jealousy, and social status unfold through humorous disguises, tricks, and misunderstandings. With its fast-paced humor and spirited characters, The Merry Wives of Windsor is a delightful exploration of love, folly, and the triumph of wit over arrogance.

Much Ado About Nothing is a lively comedy about love, wit, and deception. The play follows two contrasting romances—one full of playful banter and reluctant affection, the other threatened by misunderstanding and deceit. Themes of honor, trust, and the power of words drive the story, as schemes both humorous and serious unfold. With its sharp dialogue, engaging characters, and exploration of love’s complexities, Much Ado About Nothing remains one of Shakespeare’s most entertaining and enduring comedies.

9. As You Like It (c. 1599)
As You Like It is a charming comedy that explores love, identity, and the contrast between court life and nature. Set in the idyllic Forest of Arden, the play follows characters who seek refuge from political strife and discover romance, wisdom, and self-discovery. Disguises, witty banter, and mistaken identities lead to humorous and heartfelt moments as love blossoms in unexpected ways. Themes of freedom, transformation, and the joy of life’s simple pleasures shape the story. With its memorable characters and uplifting tone, As You Like It remains one of Shakespeare’s most beloved and joyful comedies.

10. Twelfth Night (c. 1601)
Twelfth Night is a delightful comedy filled with mistaken identities, romance, and witty humor. The play follows a shipwrecked heroine who disguises herself as a man, leading to unexpected love triangles and comedic misunderstandings. Themes of love, identity, and fate intertwine as characters navigate deception and self-discovery. With its lively wordplay, amusing twists, and heartfelt moments, Twelfth Night celebrates the joy and folly of love while offering a playful yet insightful look at human nature. It remains one of Shakespeare’s most charming and timeless comedies.

All’s Well That Ends Well is a bittersweet comedy that explores themes of love, ambition, and resilience. The play follows a determined young woman who uses intelligence and perseverance to win the love of a reluctant nobleman, leading to unexpected challenges and moral dilemmas. Through clever schemes, mistaken identities, and lessons in humility, the story examines the complexities of relationships and personal growth. Blending humor with deeper themes of destiny and human nature, All’s Well That Ends Well remains one of Shakespeare’s most thought-provoking and unconventional comedies.

12. Measure for Measure (c. 1604)
Measure for Measure is a thought-provoking drama that explores justice, morality, and power. The play follows a ruler who temporarily steps away, leaving a strict deputy in charge, leading to a moral crisis when the new leader enforces harsh laws with questionable judgment. Themes of mercy, corruption, and virtue unfold as characters navigate difficult ethical dilemmas. With its mix of serious themes and moments of humor, Measure for Measure is a complex play that challenges notions of justice and human nature, making it one of Shakespeare’s most compelling works.

Pericles, Prince of Tyre is an adventurous tale of fate, loss, and redemption. The play follows a noble prince who embarks on a journey across the seas, facing shipwrecks, political intrigue, and personal trials. Through perseverance and fortune, he encounters love, separation, and the hope of reunion. Themes of destiny, resilience, and divine intervention shape the story, as characters navigate the challenges of life and fate. With its blend of romance, mystery, and dramatic twists, Pericles, Prince of Tyre remains a compelling and emotionally rich Shakespearean play.

14. The Tempest (c. 1610)
The Tempest is a magical tale of revenge, forgiveness, and transformation. Set on a remote island, the story follows a powerful sorcerer who, through enchantments and illusions, orchestrates events to confront his past and shape his future. Themes of power, justice, and redemption unfold as shipwrecked travelers encounter mystical beings and hidden truths. With its blend of fantasy, humor, and profound reflection on human nature, The Tempest remains one of Shakespeare’s most enchanting and thought-provoking plays.

15. Cymbeline (c. 1610)
Cymbeline is a dramatic romance filled with intrigue, mistaken identities, and themes of loyalty and redemption. The play follows a princess who faces betrayal, exile, and deception as she fights for love and justice. Along the way, disguises, secret plots, and unexpected reunions shape her journey. Blending elements of tragedy, comedy, and adventure, Cymbeline explores themes of forgiveness, fate, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its mix of suspense and heartfelt moments, the play remains one of Shakespeare’s most complex and fascinating works.

16. The Winter’s Tale (c. 1611)
The Winter’s Tale is a story of jealousy, loss, and redemption, blending tragedy and comedy. It follows a king whose unfounded suspicion sets off a chain of events leading to heartbreak and separation. As time passes, love, fate, and forgiveness shape the lives of those affected. The play explores themes of repentance, renewal, and the passage of time, culminating in a powerful and unexpected resolution. With its mix of intense drama, lighthearted romance, and magical elements, The Winter’s Tale remains one of Shakespeare’s most unique and emotionally resonant works.

C. Histories 


Shakespeare’s histories dramatize the lives of English kings, exploring themes of power, legitimacy, leadership, and national identity. These plays blend historical events with poetic storytelling, portraying the complexities of war, ambition, and political intrigue. They examine the burdens of kingship, the consequences of rebellion, and the moral dilemmas faced by rulers. Shakespeare’s histories not only depict the past but also offer timeless insights into human nature and governance. Through compelling characters and grand themes, these works continue to shape our understanding of history, leadership, and the struggle for power. 

King John (c. 1596)
A rarely performed but fascinating historical play, King John depicts the struggles of the titular ruler as he faces political betrayal, war, and shifting alliances. Themes of legitimacy, power, and fate shape the story as John fights to secure his rule. Filled with intrigue and dramatic speeches, King John offers a compelling look at medieval politics and the uncertainties of monarchy.

Henry VIII (c. 1613)
A grand history play exploring political ambition, betrayal, and the shifting fortunes of Henry VIII’s court. The drama follows the king’s struggles with advisors, his controversial marriage to Anne Boleyn, and the downfall of powerful figures like Cardinal Wolsey. With themes of fate and power, Henry VIII offers a reflective look at one of England’s most famous rulers.

WAR OF THE ROSES SAGA:
Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses plays dramatize the brutal conflict between the rival Houses of Lancaster and York for control of the English throne during the 15th century. This historical struggle is depicted across two interconnected tetralogies: Lancastrian Tetralogy (Henry VI Part 1, 2, 3, Richard III) and Henriad (Richard II,  Henry IV Part 1, 2, Henry V). Here we arrange Shakespeare’s Wars of the Roses plays based on historical chronology rather than the order they were written:

1. Richard II (c. 1595)
A poetic tragedy about the downfall of a king, Richard II follows the titular ruler as he faces rebellion and exile. His belief in divine right clashes with political realities, leading to his undoing. Themes of identity, kingship, and the fleeting nature of power run throughout the play. With its lyrical verse and deep philosophical insights, Richard II is a compelling exploration of loss and legitimacy.

2. Henry IV, Part 1 (c. 1597)
A gripping historical drama exploring rebellion, honor, and personal growth. The play follows King Henry IV’s troubled reign as he faces uprisings while his son, Prince Hal, struggles between duty and a carefree life with the witty rogue Falstaff. As conflict brews, Hal must choose between his wild youth and his future as a leader. Henry IV, Part 1 blends political intrigue, humor, and action, offering a compelling look at power and transformation.

3. Henry IV, Part 2 (c. 1598)
A continuation of the struggle for power and identity, Henry IV, Part 2 follows Prince Hal’s journey toward kingship as his father’s health declines. Meanwhile, Falstaff revels in his misadventures, unaware of the shifting tides. Themes of responsibility, change, and the burdens of rule shape the story, leading to a poignant transition of power. This play deepens the political and personal stakes introduced in Part 1.

4. Henry V (c. 1599)
A stirring tale of war, leadership, and national identity, Henry V follows the young king as he seeks to unite his people and assert his claim to the French throne. Through rousing speeches, intense battles, and moments of introspection, the play examines the nature of kingship and the costs of war. With its famous battlefield scenes and powerful themes, Henry V remains one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated historical plays.

5. Henry VI, Part 1 (c. 1591)
The first in the Henry VI trilogy, this play depicts England’s political turmoil after Henry V’s death, as noble factions fight for control and conflict with France escalates. The rise of Joan of Arc, internal betrayals, and struggles for power set the stage for further chaos. Henry VI, Part 1 introduces the Wars of the Roses, portraying the fragility of leadership in a divided kingdom.

6. Henry VI, Part 2 (c. 1591)
Political intrigue intensifies as rival factions—York and Lancaster—battle for dominance over the weak King Henry VI. Betrayals, conspiracies, and shifting alliances push England closer to civil war. As noble houses fight for power, the seeds of the Wars of the Roses are firmly planted. Henry VI, Part 2 is a gripping tale of ambition and the descent into chaos.

7. Henry VI, Part 3 (c. 1591)
The Wars of the Roses erupt into full-scale conflict as rival claimants to the throne fight for supremacy. King Henry VI’s weak leadership leaves England vulnerable to shifting loyalties and bloody battles. As noble families tear the nation apart, the ruthless Richard, Duke of Gloucester, begins his rise. Henry VI, Part 3 is a dramatic and violent portrait of a kingdom in turmoil.

8. Richard III (c. 1592)
A thrilling political drama featuring one of Shakespeare’s most infamous villains, Richard III follows the ruthless Duke of Gloucester’s rise to power through manipulation, deception, and murder. As he eliminates rivals, his reign becomes one of paranoia and tyranny. The play explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of unchecked power, culminating in a dramatic reckoning.

II. Poetry


Shakespeare’s poetry is renowned for its lyrical beauty, emotional depth, and mastery of language. His works explore themes of love, time, mortality, nature, and the power of art. With rich imagery, rhythmic precision, and profound philosophical reflections, his poetry captures the complexities of human experience. His verses often contemplate the fleeting nature of beauty, the endurance of love, and the inevitability of change. Through intricate wordplay and timeless themes, Shakespeare’s poetry continues to inspire readers, demonstrating the enduring power of poetic expression in shaping emotions, ideas, and artistic traditions. Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets and several long narrative poems:

A. Shakespeare’s Sonnets

1. Sonnets (1609)
Shakespeare’s Sonnets are a collection of 154 poems exploring themes of love, beauty, time, and mortality. Written in iambic pentameter with a distinct structure, they reflect on the fleeting nature of youth, the power of poetry to immortalize beauty, and the complexities of human relationships. Some sonnets celebrate deep admiration and passion, while others contemplate loss, betrayal, and the passage of time. Shakespeare’s mastery of language, metaphor, and emotion makes these poems timeless. His sonnets remain among the most profound and influential works in English literature, offering deep reflections on love and the human experience.

B. Narrative Poems


Venus and Adonis is a narrative poem by Shakespeare that explores themes of love, desire, and rejection. Inspired by classical mythology, it tells the story of a passionate goddess who longs for the affection of a handsome youth. As she expresses deep love and longing, he remains indifferent, preferring pursuits of adventure over romance. The poem vividly portrays the contrasts between idealized love and personal will, blending humor, sensuality, and poetic elegance. With its rich imagery and emotional depth, Venus and Adonis stands as one of Shakespeare’s most captivating explorations of desire and human nature.

The Rape of Lucrece is a tragic narrative poem by Shakespeare that explores themes of honor, power, and the consequences of wrongdoing. Set in ancient Rome, it tells the story of a noblewoman whose virtue is tested by an act of betrayal, leading to profound grief and a turning point in history. The poem delves into psychological turmoil, guilt, and the weight of moral choices, offering a deep reflection on justice and the abuse of power. With its rich imagery and emotional intensity, The Rape of Lucrece remains a powerful exploration of virtue, corruption, and the human spirit.

A Lover’s Complaint is a narrative poem by Shakespeare that explores themes of love, betrayal, and emotional suffering. It follows a young woman who laments her fate after being deceived by a charming yet unfaithful suitor. Through her sorrowful reflection, the poem examines the complexities of love, the power of persuasion, and the vulnerability of the heart. Shakespeare’s rich imagery and lyrical style create a poignant meditation on the consequences of misplaced trust. With its melancholic tone and psychological depth, A Lover’s Complaint remains a compelling exploration of love’s joys and sorrows.

The Phoenix and the Turtle is an allegorical poem by Shakespeare that explores themes of ideal love, unity, and loss. Using the imagery of the mythical phoenix and the faithful turtle dove, it mourns the passing of a perfect, spiritual love that transcends the physical world. The poem’s abstract and symbolic language reflects deep philosophical ideas about the nature of love and truth. With its mysterious tone and rich allegory, The Phoenix and the Turtle stands as one of Shakespeare’s most enigmatic and thought-provoking poetic works.

III. Lost and Controversial Works


Shakespeare’s lost and controversial works include plays and writings that are either missing, disputed, or debated in terms of authorship. Love’s Labour’s Won is a lost play referenced in historical records but never recovered. Some works, such as The Two Noble Kinsmen and Edward III are considered partially Shakespearean due to stylistic analysis. Controversial attributions arise with collaborative plays and anonymous texts that some scholars believe contain Shakespeare’s influence. These mysteries continue to intrigue researchers, offering insights into the complexities of Elizabethan and Jacobean theater. The search for lost works remains an ongoing literary fascination.

A. Well-known lost and controversial works:


1. Cardenio 
Cardenio is a lost play attributed to Shakespeare and John Fletcher, believed to have been performed in the early 17th century. Inspired by a character from Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote, the story likely explored themes of love, betrayal, and madness. Though no known copies of the play survive, historical records suggest it was staged and later lost. Some modern reconstructions attempt to recreate its narrative based on Cervantes' text and Shakespearean style. Cardenio remains one of literature’s great mysteries, sparking scholarly debates about its existence and potential rediscovery.

Edward III is a historical play attributed partly to Shakespeare, focusing on the reign of the English king during the Hundred Years’ War. The play explores themes of kingship, war, and national identity, depicting political intrigue and military conquest. While its authorship remains debated, many scholars recognize Shakespeare’s influence, particularly in its poetic passages and character depth. The play captures the challenges of leadership and the complexities of power, blending action with reflective moments on honor and duty. Edward III remains an intriguing work for those interested in Shakespeare’s historical dramas and collaborative authorship.

The Two Noble Kinsmen is a tragicomedy attributed to William Shakespeare and John Fletcher, based on Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Knight’s Tale. The play explores themes of friendship, love, fate, and rivalry as two close companions find themselves competing for the same woman’s affection. Their deep bond is tested by passion and circumstance, leading to a tale of honor, sacrifice, and destiny. With its mix of romance, drama, and philosophical reflection, The Two Noble Kinsmen remains a unique and thought-provoking work, blending Shakespearean poetry with Fletcher’s distinct style.

4. A Yorkshire Tragedy
A short, intense domestic drama, A Yorkshire Tragedy depicts a nobleman’s descent into violence and ruin. Centered on themes of greed, abuse, and moral downfall, the play presents a dark, psychological portrait of familial destruction. Though once attributed to Shakespeare, its authorship remains debated.

5. Arden of Faversham
A gripping true-crime drama, Arden of Faversham recounts the murder of a wealthy landowner orchestrated by his unfaithful wife. Blending domestic realism with brutal intrigue, the play explores themes of betrayal and justice. While its authorship is uncertain, some scholars suggest Shakespeare may have contributed.

6. Double Falsehood
Published in 1727, Double Falsehood is claimed to be an adaptation of the lost Cardenio. With elements of mistaken identity, romance, and deception, the play has sparked scholarly debate over whether it preserves traces of Shakespeare’s lost work.

7. Edmund Ironside
A historical drama about an Anglo-Saxon king resisting Viking invaders, Edmund Ironside presents themes of war, leadership, and betrayal. Some scholars suggest Shakespearean influences, but its true authorship remains uncertain.

8. Fair Em
A romantic comedy filled with disguises and mistaken identities, Fair Em follows a beautiful maiden pursued by multiple suitors. Though once attributed to Shakespeare, its simplistic style and uncertain origins make its connection doubtful.

9. Locrine
A pseudo-historical tragedy about Britain’s legendary past, Locrine follows royal conflicts, betrayal, and revenge. The play was once published under Shakespeare’s name, but most scholars reject his authorship.

10. Love's Labour's Won
A lost play referenced in contemporary records, Love’s Labour’s Won may have been a sequel to Love’s Labour’s Lost or another Shakespearean comedy. No copies are known to exist, leaving its plot a mystery.

11. Mucedorus
A popular Elizabethan play about a prince disguising himself as a shepherd to win the love of a princess. Its lighthearted tone and fantastical elements made it a favorite, though Shakespeare’s involvement is doubtful.

12. Sejanus His Fall
A Roman tragedy written by Ben Jonson, Sejanus His Fall may have included contributions from Shakespeare in its early drafts. The play explores political ambition, corruption, and downfall in imperial Rome.

13. Sir John Oldcastle
A historical drama about the rebellious Lollard leader Sir John Oldcastle. Originally intended as the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Falstaff, the play portrays Oldcastle more heroically. Though once attributed to Shakespeare, modern scholars dispute his authorship.

14. Sir Thomas More
A historical play about the life of Sir Thomas More, known for his defiance of Henry VIII. Shakespeare is believed to have contributed a scene on the anti-immigrant riots, making it the only surviving manuscript in his handwriting.

15. The Birth of Merlin
A dramatic romance blending Arthurian legend and supernatural elements. The play tells the story of Merlin’s origins and Britain’s mythic past. Though once attributed to Shakespeare, scholars widely dismiss his involvement.

16. The London Prodigal
A moralistic comedy about a reckless young man squandering his wealth before seeking redemption. It was falsely credited to Shakespeare in an early collection but lacks his stylistic depth.

17. The Merry Devil of Edmonton
A comedic tale featuring a trickster sorcerer, this play revolves around love, deception, and magic. Despite its lively tone, there is no strong evidence linking it to Shakespeare.

A collection of poems published under Shakespeare’s name, The Passionate Pilgrim includes works by other poets. Some sonnets appear Shakespearean, but much of the collection remains dubious in authorship.

19. The Puritan
A satirical comedy mocking religious hypocrisy, The Puritan was once included in a collection of Shakespeare’s works. However, its tone and style suggest another playwright.

20. The Second Maiden's Tragedy
A dark Jacobean drama about love, tyranny, and the supernatural. Some scholars have speculated Shakespeare’s influence, but its true authorship is uncertain.

21. The Spanish Tragedy
A highly influential revenge tragedy by Thomas Kyd, The Spanish Tragedy helped shape Shakespearean drama. Some believe Shakespeare contributed additional scenes, but his role remains debated.

22. Thomas Lord Cromwell
A historical play about the rise and fall of Thomas Cromwell. Published under Shakespeare’s name, but most scholars reject this attribution due to its inconsistent style.

23. Thomas of Woodstock
A history play about King Richard II’s political conflicts before Shakespeare’s Richard II. Some argue Shakespeare may have influenced its writing, but evidence is inconclusive.

"To the Queen" is a short 18 line poem praising Queen Elizabeth I attributed to William Shakespeare. It was included in 2007 by Jonathan Bate in his complete Shakespeare edition for the Royal Shakespeare Company

25. Ur-Hamlet
A mysterious lost play about Prince Hamlet, believed to have influenced Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Its authorship is unknown, though some suspect Thomas Kyd.

26. Vortigern and Rowena
A historical play about the legendary King Vortigern, this work was a literary forgery falsely presented as a lost Shakespearean play in the 18th century.

B. Little to no direct evidence linking:


1. Duke Humphrey
A lost play believed to have depicted the life and downfall of Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester. Some scholars suggest Shakespeare may have contributed, but no text survives.

2. The History of Cardenio
While Cardenio is widely known, some sources mention The History of Cardenio separately, possibly as an adaptation or altered version of the lost play.

3. Iphis and Ianthe
A rumored lost work, possibly inspired by Ovid’s Metamorphoses, but there is little historical evidence confirming Shakespeare’s involvement.

4. The Isle of Dogs
A controversial satirical play written by Ben Jonson and Thomas Nashe in 1597. Some speculate Shakespeare may have been involved, but no proof exists.

5. Troilus and Pandarus
A possible alternate version of Troilus and Cressida, though no known copies have survived.

6. The Five Plays in the 1664 Folio
The 1664 edition of Shakespeare’s Third Folio included five plays that were not in earlier folios, sometimes mistakenly attributed to him:
  • Locrine
  • The London Prodigal
  • The Puritan
  • Thomas Lord Cromwell
  • The Yorkshire Tragedy

Most scholars reject Shakespeare’s authorship of these works.

7. The True Chronicle History of King Leir
A 1594 play about King Leir and his daughters predating Shakespeare’s King Lear. Some believe Shakespeare was influenced by or even contributed to it.

8. The Famous Victories of Henry V
An anonymous play that covers events later dramatized in Henry IV and Henry V. Some scholars suggest Shakespeare may have revised it.

9. A Tragical Discourse of the Unhappy Fate of the Stuarts
A lost manuscript sometimes attributed to Shakespeare, speculated to be a poem or play about the downfall of the Stuart family.

10. The Siege of London
Mentioned in historical records but lost. Some suggest it might have been a forerunner to Shakespeare’s Henry VI plays.

11. Henry I
A supposed lost historical play about the English king, possibly related to the Shakespearean history cycle. No known copies exist.