This book presents a compact version of Hank Whittemore's groundbreaking reference work The Monument (2005) for the general reader, emphasizing the dramatic story of the Sonnets preserved for "eyes not yet created" in posterity. The Living Record is a riveting tale of three of the most misunderstood and mysterious figures in literature: the Poet, the Fair Youth, and the Dark Lady. By placing the stencil of history over the Sonnets and seeing the design, structure, and genius of a masterwork, the true autobiographical story comes to life with all the details of betrayal, succession, and unrelenting love. Be prepared to be amazed.Now the original sequence of the Sonnets is seen clearly as a carefully arranged chronicle of contemporary history leading to the royal succession of Elizabeth I of England. Whittemore demonstrates that Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, compiled "the living record" of Henry Wriothesley, 3rd Earl of Southampton, his unacknowledged royal son by the complicated female monarch he had both loved and hated.. The chronicle appears within a "monument" of verse, organized in the form of a diary leading to the death of Elizabeth and the succession of King James of Scotland as King James I of England, bringing the long Tudor dynasty to its end.Whittemore shows how this masterwork contains a "century" of 100 central sonnets. When the stencil of history is placed over the numbered sonnets, they reveal the true story preserved for posterity. The hundred sonnets at the center begin with the failed Essex Rebellion of 1601, when the earls of Essex and Southampton were placed in the Tower of London as traitors. The 100-sonnet center covers the treason trial, when both were condemned to death, followed the by execution of Essex and the bargain for sparing Southampton's life, which involved the posthumous obliteration of Oxford's identity. In other words, here is what eventually led to the mystery of the Shakespearean authorship. "The Living Record" shows that the powerful Secretary Robert Cecil, who had taken control of the government, held Southampton hostage in the Tower until the Queen's death and the succession of James; and that the winners of this political struggle went on to write the false history."Whittemore presents his argument in an elegant yet understated manner ... The result is not only highly readable and accessible, but also increasingly compelling ... An impressively argued and engaging work, allowing the sonnets to be perceived from a thought-provoking, alternative perspective ... An astute and eloquent reconsideration of Shakespeare's Sonnets that unearths political meaning in love poems." - Kirkus Reviews on The Living Record, “Hank Whittemore’s groundbreaking study of Shakespeare’s sonnets puts forth his discovery that beneath the surface romantic quality, all of them have hidden meaningful content.” – Felicia Hardison Londré, Curators’ Professor of Theatre, University of Missouri-Kansas City, on the discovery underlying both The Monument and The Living Record.“This is a giant leap of recognition by Whittemore, allowing Shakespeare’s autobiographical testimony to emerge.” – Professor Daniel Wright, director, Shakespeare Authorship Research Centre, Concordia University, Portland, Oregon, on The Monument.Edward de Vere had adopted "William Shakespeare" in 1593 to support Southampton's succession to the throne, especially with the Shakespearean plays of royal history that emphasize the qualities needed by any monarch entrusted with England's future. The false history, written by the winners, has prevented us from seeing "the living record" of Southampton in the Sonnets printed in 1609, five years after Oxford's death. Now the poems are placed within a context of genuine biography and history, allowing their true meaning to appear with all the power of sudden recognition.
✔ Author(s): Hank Whittemore
✔ Title: The Living Record: Shakespeare, Succession, and the Sonnets
✔ Rating : 5 out of 5 base on (29 reviews)
✔ ISBN-10: 1737383241
✔ Language: English
✔ Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
✔ Device compatibles: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
Readers' opinions about The Living Record by Hank Whittemore
Sara Poole
Discover the magic of first love and self-discovery in this enchanting coming-of-age story. The author's lyrical prose and relatable characters create a heartwarming narrative. Each chapter explores the joys and challenges of growing up with sensitivity and insight. The emotional journey is both poignant and uplifting. It's a story that resonates with readers of all ages. Ideal for fans of young adult fiction.
Rayleen Kirby
Experience the profound impact of art and creativity in this beautifully written novel. The author's evocative writing and compelling characters bring the story to life. Each chapter explores the transformative power of art with sensitivity and depth. The plot is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. It's a narrative that celebrates the beauty of human expression. Ideal for readers who appreciate stories about art and inspiration.
Sara Price
Explore the transformative power of travel and adventure in this inspiring memoir. The author's vivid descriptions and engaging writing make you feel like you're right there with them. Each chapter offers new insights into different cultures and landscapes. The narrative is both informative and deeply personal, sharing the highs and lows of the journey. It's a story that inspires wanderlust and personal growth. Perfect for those who love travel stories.
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