How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
To draw no envy Shakespeare on thy name
Am I thus ample to thy Book and Fame (1-2)
An interesting cynical beginning to what becomes a poem chock full of compliments. Why do you think Jonson singles out Shakespeare's name from his book and fame?
Quote #2
My Shakespeare, rise! I will not lodge thee by
Chaucer, or Spenser, or bid Beaumont lie
A little further, to make thee a room (19-21)
Jonson compares Shakespeare to Chaucer, Spenser, and Beaumont—the first three poets to have the honor of being buried in what would come to be known as Poet's Corner in Westminster Abbey. So, basically, Jonson thinks Ol' Shakey is kind of a Big Deal.
Quote #3
But call forth thund'ring Aeschelus,
Euripides, and Sophocles to us
Pacuvius, Accius, his of Cordova dead
To life again, to hear thy Buskin tread (33-36)
If you could bring back any famous playwright from back in the day and watch their work performed as it was originally, who would you choose? While time travel may not be a viable option (yet… here's hoping), there are tons of theater companies dedicated to doing just that—check and see if one is near you.