Summary of Shakespeare: The Truth Behind The Name
Shakespeare: The Truth Behind The Name, narrated by Robin Phillips, embarks on a captivating investigation into one of the most enduring mysteries of literary history: the true authorship of the works attributed to William Shakespeare. This documentary delves deep into the theory that Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, is the actual mind behind the Shakespearean canon.
Through meticulous examination of historical documents and literary clues embedded within the plays themselves, the film presents compelling evidence suggesting that de Vere’s life of courtly scandal, romance, and political intrigue may have been the inspiration for the beloved works of theater. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Queen Elizabeth I’s court, revealing a world rife with hidden motives and artistic expression.
The documentary invites viewers to reconsider the traditional narrative surrounding Shakespeare and explore a far more complex and aristocratic origin for the iconic plays and sonnets. Robin Phillips’s engaging narration guides the audience through this thought-provoking argument, compelling them to ponder the implications of authorship and creative identity.
Cast:
- Robin Phillips (Narrator)
Director:
- Not specified
Writer:
- Not specified
Whether you’re a staunch believer in the Shakespearean orthodoxy or an open-minded skeptic, Shakespeare: The Truth Behind The Name offers a fascinating exploration of literature, history, and deception that will leave you questioning the very foundations of literary attribution.
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Video “Shakespeare: The Truth Behind The Name | FREE MOVIE (Robin Phillips)” was uploaded on 04/01/2026 to Youtube Channel Stream City
































There is extensive contemporary evidence linking William Shakespeare of Stratford to the plays as both a writer and an actor. In 1592, Robert Greene’s Groatsworth attacks “Shake-scene.” He mocks an actor who “supposes he is as well able to bombast out a blank verse as the best of you” and has a “tiger’s heart wrapped in a player’s hide.” Greene quotes Henry VI and makes it clear the individual is someone writing plays while acting.
Venus and Adonis, published in 1593, and Lucrece in 1594 appear under Shakespeare’s name with dedications to the Earl of Southampton. The 1609 Sonnets also bear his name. Dozens of quartos, including Richard II, Richard III, Hamlet, and King Lear, were printed under his name. Francis Meres mentions him as a playwright in 1598 alongside the Earl of Oxford, which makes the claim that they were the same person fallacious.
Court records from 1594–95 show him performing with Burbage and Kemp. His will leaves money to three fellow actors, two of whom, John Heminges and Henry Condell, later compiled the 1623 First Folio. Ben Jonson praises him as a writer and actor in that Folio. The Stratford monument celebrates him as poet and dramatist. All of this points to one real person. William Shakespeare of Stratford wrote the plays and acted in them. There is no need for a pseudonym theory.
I love this author's works. What does it matter NOW who wrote it?? It's good stuff. Centuries from now people will probably think that Prince Harry was the brilliant writer of SPARE.
classist codswallop.
Well, my eyes have been opened. Love this beautiful lady, Robin.
❤❤❤