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  • William Shakespeare's family coat of arms meant more than just status in British society. This badge of honor, earned by Shakespeare's success as a playwright, restored his father's reputation as a gentleman in their hometown of Stratford-Upon-Avon, England.

    Worthy Candidate

    Shakespeare's plays captured society's attention, earning him the respect needed to garner approval for a family coat of arms. The bard's early works included Richard III, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo and Juliet, Richard II, and Henry IV. He rose quickly to fame in London, enjoying financial and social success.

    Coat of Arms

    In 1596, the College of Arms in London granted the Shakespeare family's request to display a coat of arms bearing the motto "Not without right" and depicting a spear, helmet, and falcon with black, gold, and silver colors. The coat of arms could be displayed on the family door and all personal items, and Shakespeare men now could place "gentleman" after their name.

    Significance

    The coat of arms restored credibility to Shakespeare's father, John, whose request 20 years before had been denied. Through his son's reputation, John Shakespeare again became a recognized member of high society, passing down the coat of arms when he died.

    History

    When William Shakespeare was growing up, his father led a roller-coaster life in Stratford society. He held respected positions as alderman and bailiff but fell precipitously in society's eyes after being caught as a "brogger," an illegal, unlicensed wool dealer. Debts mounting, he left public service.

    Evidence

    The Shakespeare family's original application for a coat of arms remains on file at the College of Arms in London.

    Source:

    Coat of Arms Application

    Shakespeare Coat of Arms

    Shakespeare Folger Library -- 10 Ways to Be a Shakespeare Expert

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