William Shakespeare, the renowned playwright and poet of the English Renaissance, is widely regarded for his complex and richly woven language. The words and phrases he used are often studied for their historical significance, literary beauty, and linguistic evolution. One such word that frequently appears in Shakespeare’s works is “dost.” While it may seem archaic and unfamiliar to modern readers, its use in Shakespeare’s time was not only commonplace but also essential in understanding the dynamics of dialogue and character development.
In this article, we will explore the meaning of “dost” in Shakespeare’s works, the grammatical role it played, and how its use reflects the societal and linguistic norms of the time. We will also delve into how “dost” fits within the broader themes of Shakespeare’s language, offering insights into his style and how it shapes our understanding of his characters and plays.
The Meaning of “Dost” in Shakespeare’s Time
The word “dost” is an archaic form of the verb “do,” used specifically with the second person singular. In modern English, we would say “you do,” but in Shakespeare’s day, this was expressed as “thou dost.” “Dost” is a present tense form that corresponds to the modern usage of “do” when addressing someone directly in an informal or familiar way.
To fully understand the meaning and usage of “dost,” it’s essential to examine the linguistic framework of Early Modern English, the language spoken in England during the late 15th and 16th centuries. English at the time was transitioning from Middle English to the modern forms we use today. This period saw significant changes in grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, including the use of pronouns and verb conjugations.
In Early Modern English, the second person singular pronoun “thou” was commonly used in both spoken and written communication. It denoted familiarity or intimacy, often used for addressing close friends, family members, or inferiors. Conversely, “you” was the second person plural form, which could also serve as a polite or formal address for a single person. The verb forms also varied depending on the pronoun used. For example, “dost” was used with “thou,” while “do” was used with “you.” This distinction is crucial in understanding the dynamics of power, respect, and emotional tone in Shakespeare’s plays.
When a character in Shakespeare’s works uses “dost,” they are speaking directly to another person in an informal manner, which might indicate familiarity, affection, or even a certain level of superiority or command. The choice of “dost” rather than “do” can reveal a great deal about the relationship between characters, and it is often strategically employed by Shakespeare to enhance the emotional impact of a scene.
Grammatical and Stylistic Role of “Dost”
The use of “dost” in Shakespeare’s plays serves not only as a grammatical tool but also as a stylistic device that contributes to the overall tone and atmosphere of the work. One key feature of Shakespeare’s language is his ability to manipulate the rules of grammar for dramatic effect. The verb “dost,” like other forms of Early Modern English, is an example of how Shakespeare’s use of language transcends mere communication. The choices he made in verb conjugation reflect deeper themes of status, power, intimacy, and conflict.
Verb Conjugation in Early Modern English
In Early Modern English, verb conjugations differed significantly from modern English. In addition to the familiar “thou dost,” there were other forms like “thou hast” (you have), “thou art” (you are), and “thou wilt” (you will). The use of these forms is not arbitrary; they were linked to the social and personal relationships between the characters. For instance, “thou” and its associated conjugations were used in informal situations, such as when addressing close friends or subordinates, while “you” was used in more formal settings or when addressing someone of higher rank.
Shakespeare made deliberate choices in selecting “dost” over “do” to communicate specific nuances in the relationships between his characters. This choice often underscores the emotional charge of a scene, such as the intimacy between two lovers or the tension between a ruler and their subject.
Dramatic Effect
Shakespeare often employed the word “dost” to create a sense of immediacy or intimacy in dialogue. The directness of the second person singular address emphasized the urgency or closeness of the interaction. For example, in Romeo and Juliet, when Romeo speaks to Juliet, he uses “dost” to express a sense of urgency and personal connection. The choice of “thou dost” instead of “you do” elevates the emotional intensity, as it underscores the familiarity and passion of their relationship.
Similarly, the use of “dost” in moments of confrontation or conflict can underscore the antagonistic relationship between characters. In Macbeth, for instance, Lady Macbeth uses the phrase “What dost thou do?” to challenge her husband’s actions and question his resolve. The intimate, informal tone contrasts with the gravity of the situation, adding layers of tension and intrigue to the dialogue.
“Dost” and Characterization
In Shakespeare’s plays, the use of “dost” is often tied to character development and the portrayal of relationships. The formality or informality of the language used between characters can reveal their social standing, emotional bonds, and the power dynamics at play. For instance, a noble character might use “you” when addressing a lower-class character, while a lower-class character might use “thou” when speaking to their superior, creating a clear sense of social hierarchy.
Intimacy and Affection
In romantic or familial relationships, the use of “dost” often signals affection, intimacy, and emotional closeness. In The Taming of the Shrew, for example, Petruchio uses the form “dost” when speaking to Katherina, suggesting an informal, somewhat playful relationship dynamic. The choice of “dost” highlights the familiarity between them, despite the tension in their interactions. This choice reinforces the emotional undercurrent of the scene, where Petruchio and Katherina struggle with control and submission, but still share a personal connection.
The use of “dost” also plays a crucial role in Shakespeare’s exploration of friendship. In The Merchant of Venice, for example, Antonio addresses Bassanio using “dost,” suggesting a deep and intimate bond between the two. Their relationship is marked by trust and affection, and Shakespeare uses the form of address to reinforce this closeness.
Power Dynamics and Authority
On the other hand, the use of “dost” can also signal the reversal of power dynamics. For instance, in King Lear, when Lear addresses his daughters using “thou” and “dost,” he is asserting his authority as the father. However, as the play progresses, the shifting power dynamics become evident when his daughters begin to challenge his authority, and the use of “dost” highlights the disintegration of Lear’s power.
In contrast, characters like Iago in Othello use “thou dost” to manipulate and control others. Iago’s use of language often reflects his devious nature, as he takes advantage of his familiarity with other characters to sow discord and mistrust. Through the use of “dost,” Iago creates a false sense of closeness while maintaining his hidden agenda.
The Evolution of “Dost” in Modern English
As the English language evolved over time, many forms of Early Modern English, including “dost,” gradually fell out of use. By the 18th century, the distinction between “thou” and “you” had largely disappeared, and the conjugation of verbs with “you” became standardized. The word “dost,” along with other archaic forms, became a historical relic, primarily found in Shakespeare’s works and other literature of the period.
The shift from “dost” to “do” reflects broader changes in the English language, such as the simplification of verb conjugations and the loss of many inflectional forms. While “dost” may seem foreign and quaint to modern ears, its usage in Shakespeare’s works provides valuable insight into the linguistic landscape of the Renaissance and the ways in which language can be used to convey complex social and emotional nuances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the word “dost” in Shakespeare’s plays is far more than a simple linguistic artifact. It serves as a window into the language and culture of the English Renaissance, reflecting the social hierarchies, personal relationships, and emotional dynamics of the time. By understanding the grammatical and stylistic role of “dost,” readers and scholars gain a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare’s mastery of language and his ability to use every word to shape his characters and stories.
The use of “dost” underscores the intimacy, affection, authority, and tension between characters, and its strategic placement in dialogue contributes to the overall dramatic impact of Shakespeare’s works. While “dost” may no longer be in common use, its legacy continues to inform our understanding of Shakespeare’s genius and the enduring power of language in literature.
