Shakespearean English is full of archaic pronouns that can trip up modern readers. Words like 'thou', 'thee', and 'thy' might seem interchangeable, but they each have distinct roles. This guide breaks them down.
The Basics: 'Thou', 'Thee', 'Thy', and 'Thine'
Thou
/ðaʊ/“You (subject)”
Used when addressing one person as the subject of a sentence. Equivalent to modern 'you'.
Thee
/ðiː/“You (object)”
Used when addressing one person as the object of a verb or preposition. Equivalent to modern 'you'.
Thy
/ðaɪ/“Your”
Possessive form before a consonant. Equivalent to 'your'.
Thine
/ðaɪn/“Your (before vowels)”
Possessive form before a vowel or when standing alone. Equivalent to 'yours'.
Examples in Context
Shakespeare’s plays are full of these pronouns. Here’s how they appear in dialogue:
- Thou: "Thou art more lovely and more temperate" (Sonnet 18)
- Thee: "I beseech thee, remember thy servant" (Shakespearean Dining: Food and Feasting Language)
- Thy/Thine: "To thine own self be true" (Hamlet)
Why the Distinction Matters
In Shakespeare’s time, 'thou' was informal, while 'you' was formal. Using 'thou' to a superior could be insulting - akin to calling someone 'mate' in a formal setting today. This nuance adds depth to character interactions in his plays.
Tip: When reading Shakespeare, pay attention to who uses 'thou' and who uses 'you'. It reveals power dynamics and relationships.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using 'thou' as an object (e.g., "I give this to thou" → should be "thee").
- Using 'thy' before a vowel (e.g., "thy apple" → should be "thine apple").
- Assuming 'thou' is always reverent - it’s often the opposite!
Practice Makes Perfect
Try rewriting modern sentences in Shakespearean English. For example:
"You are my best friend" → "Thou art mine own dearest friend."
For more on historical language quirks, check out our guide on Shakespearean dining terms.
