In Shakespeare‘s plays and sonnets, language plays a crucial role in conveying complex emotions, intricate plots, and profound themes. The Bard’s use of early Modern English includes many words and grammatical structures that are unfamiliar to contemporary readers. One such word is “doth,” which appears frequently throughout his works. Understanding the meaning of “doth” and its role in Shakespearean language can help readers better appreciate the nuances of his writing.
“Doth” is a form of the verb “do” that was commonly used in the English language during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. While it might seem archaic and puzzling to modern audiences, it is a crucial part of the linguistic structure that makes Shakespeare’s works so distinctive. This article will explore what “doth” means in Shakespeare, how it functions in his plays, and its significance in the context of his writing.
The Historical and Linguistic Context of “Doth”
To understand the meaning of “doth” in Shakespeare’s time, it is essential to explore the linguistic context in which it was used. “Doth” is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb “do,” which was part of the grammar of Early Modern English. In modern English, we would simply use the word “does” in place of “doth.” For example, where we would say “He does,” Shakespeare’s characters would say “He doth.”
The use of “doth” was prevalent in all forms of English during the late 1500s and early 1600s, but as the language evolved, so did the forms of the verb “do.” While “doth” became archaic in standard usage, its presence in Shakespeare’s work contributes to the distinctive style and rhythm that characterizes his writing. The usage of “doth” was not confined to any specific type of character, but rather, it was employed by people from different social classes, in various settings, and across many of his plays.
The Role of “Doth” in Shakespeare’s Works
Shakespeare’s writing is known for its poetic nature, with careful attention to rhythm, meter, and sound. The use of “doth” contributes to these elements. The word’s frequent appearance in Shakespeare’s work helps maintain the iambic pentameter—a metrical pattern consisting of five pairs of syllables in each line of verse, often alternating between unstressed and stressed syllables. “Doth” allows for the smooth flow of the verse, preserving the structure and sound that Shakespeare intended.
For example, in his play Macbeth, one of the most iconic lines is:
“Doth ambition itself o’er-leap” (Macbeth, 1.7)
Here, the use of “doth” is integral to maintaining the rhythm of the line. Replacing “doth” with “does” would disturb the meter and disrupt the poetic quality of the verse. This highlights Shakespeare’s careful manipulation of language to achieve both meaning and form.
Moreover, “doth” carries a sense of formality and elegance, which helps to elevate the speech of his characters. In some contexts, it may indicate a sense of reverence, authority, or even distance, depending on the speaker’s social status and the situation. For example, characters who speak in iambic pentameter, like those in royal or noble settings, often use “doth” to maintain their elevated tone.
Examples of “Doth” in Shakespeare’s Plays
Throughout Shakespeare’s extensive body of work, the verb “doth” appears in many memorable lines. These instances offer insight into the varied contexts in which “doth” is used, from expressions of deep emotion to philosophical reflections.
In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare uses “doth” in a famous exchange between Romeo and Juliet:
“Doth my lady not love me?” (Romeo and Juliet, 2.2)
Here, the use of “doth” emphasizes Romeo’s uncertainty and longing. The elevated language captures the romantic and idealistic nature of the character’s feelings. The structure of the line mirrors the formal, almost ritualistic way in which Romeo seeks to express his emotions.
Similarly, in Hamlet, the character of Polonius uses the word in a more didactic context:
“Doth the man who doth his duty, live?” (Hamlet, 1.3)
Here, the repetition of “doth” underscores Polonius’s pompous, philosophical nature, giving his speech an almost authoritative tone. In this case, the word emphasizes the moral message he is attempting to impart.
The Decline of “Doth” and Its Legacy
While “doth” fell out of regular usage as English evolved into the form we use today, its legacy endures in literature and poetry. The word continues to be a hallmark of Shakespeare’s distinctive style and is an important element of his influence on the English language.
In addition to its frequent use in Shakespeare’s works, “doth” is often employed in other poetic contexts or in literary works inspired by the Bard. Its use evokes a sense of antiquity and nostalgia for a time when the language was more formal and structured. The word is now often seen in literature, poetry, and even song lyrics that seek to evoke an older or more classical style.
Some contemporary poets and writers choose to use “doth” in their works, either for stylistic purposes or as a way to engage with Shakespeare’s legacy. The word’s usage in modern contexts often brings a sense of depth and tradition to the writing, connecting contemporary authors with the poetic and linguistic heritage that Shakespeare helped to shape.
“Doth” and Its Symbolism in Shakespeare’s Work
Beyond its grammatical function, the word “doth” also holds symbolic significance in some of Shakespeare’s works. Shakespeare often used language not only to advance the plot but to convey deeper meanings and themes. The word “doth” can sometimes imply a sense of inevitability, fate, or higher authority, especially when used in lines that deal with destiny or divine intervention.
In Julius Caesar, for instance, the character of Caesar speaks to the concept of fate:
“The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings.” (Julius Caesar, 1.2)
While “doth” is not used here, the language surrounding the fault “in our stars” suggests a similar concept of fate—a recurring theme in Shakespeare’s works. The use of “doth” in other contexts, such as in lines dealing with fate or divine will, often strengthens this symbolic weight, further emphasizing the roles that larger forces play in human lives.
In The Tempest, another example of fate and destiny is expressed through the words of Prospero:
“Doth it not mean something?” (The Tempest, 5.1)
Here, “doth” adds gravitas to the philosophical musing about human existence and the mysteries of life. It adds a layer of formality and thoughtfulness to the questioning of what actions and events signify. The careful choice of words contributes to the play’s broader themes of power, control, and destiny.
Conclusion
The word “doth” in Shakespeare’s works is much more than an outdated verb form. It serves a critical function in the rhythm and meter of his poetry and dialogues, contributing to the structure and musicality of the language. It also carries with it a sense of formality and elegance, enhancing the emotional depth and philosophical weight of the characters’ speeches. Whether conveying love, ambition, duty, or fate, “doth” plays an important role in the expression of Shakespeare’s themes and characters.
While “doth” is no longer in common use in modern English, its legacy persists in literature and poetry, especially in works that seek to evoke the richness of Shakespeare’s language. By understanding the meaning and role of “doth” in Shakespeare’s works, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the linguistic artistry and timeless appeal of the Bard’s writing. Through its use, Shakespeare’s works continue to speak to us, bridging the gap between the English of his time and our own.
