How do you cite Shakespeare?

### Step 1: English Answer
Citing Shakespeare's works is a common practice in academic writing, as his plays and sonnets are often referenced for their literary significance and historical context. Here's a detailed guide on how to properly cite Shakespeare in your work:

#### Introduction to Citing Shakespeare
William Shakespeare's works are considered foundational in English literature, and they are frequently cited in literary analysis, history, and even in discussions of philosophy and psychology. When citing Shakespeare, it's important to follow the conventions that are widely accepted in academia to ensure that your references are clear and consistent with scholarly standards.

#### The Basics of Citing Shakespeare

1. Title of the Work: Start with the name of the play or sonnet you are citing.

2. Act, Scene, and Line Numbers: These are crucial for locating the exact passage you are referring to. Unlike citing modern texts, where page numbers are used, Shakespeare's works are cited by their structure (act, scene, and line numbers).

3. Edition Information: If you are using a specific edition of Shakespeare's work, it's important to include this information as different editions may have variations in text or presentation.

#### Formatting Parenthetical Citations
When citing Shakespeare in the body of your text, you will typically use parenthetical citations. Here's how to format them:


1. Act, Scene, and Line Numbers: Include these in the order they appear in the text. For example, if you are citing the beginning of Act 3, Scene 1, lines 1-3, it would be formatted as (3.1.1-3).


2. Numerals: Use Arabic numerals for the act and scene numbers, but Roman numerals for the act when it stands alone. For instance, "Act III" would be written as "Act III," but "Scene 3" would be written as "3.1".


3. Citing Ranges: If you are citing a range of lines, use an en dash (–) to indicate the span. For example, "(2.2.120–125)" would refer to lines 120 to 125 of Scene 2 in Act 2.


4. Page Numbers: Do not use page numbers when citing Shakespeare. The structure of the play is the standard method of reference.


5. Comparing with Another Author: If you are comparing Shakespeare's work with another author's, you may include Shakespeare's name and the title of the work before the act, scene, and line numbers.

#### Example of a Parenthetical Citation
Here's an example of how you might cite a line from Shakespeare's "Hamlet" in a sentence:

> In Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the titular character contemplates the nature of life and death, famously asking, "To be, or not to be" (3.1.58).

#### Full Citation in the Bibliography
In addition to parenthetical citations, you will also need to provide a full citation in your bibliography or works cited page. The full citation will typically include:


1. Author's Name: "Shakespeare, William."

2. Title of the Work: "Hamlet."

3. Edition Information: "The Arden Shakespeare, Third Series," edited by Ann Thompson and Neil Taylor.

4. Publication Information: "Bloomsbury Publishing, 2006."

5. Medium: "Print" or "Online," depending on where you accessed the text.

#### Final Thoughts
Citing Shakespeare accurately is essential for maintaining the integrity of your academic work and for allowing others to locate the passages you are discussing. Always consult the specific citation style guide (such as MLA, APA, or Chicago) that you are required to follow, as there may be slight variations in formatting and presentation.

Remember, the key to successful citation is clarity and consistency. By following these guidelines, you will ensure that your references to Shakespeare's works are both precise and professional.

### Step 2: Separator

Part 2 Formatting Parenthetical CitationsInclude the play's act, scene and line numbers in the citation. ... Choose Arabic or Roman numerals to indicate the play's act and scene. ... Cite ranges of line numbers properly. ... Do not use page numbers. ... Include Shakespeare's name if you're comparing with another author.More items...