How to Write a Letter in Shakespearean English

Writing a letter in Shakespearean English isn’t just for Renaissance Faire enthusiasts or overzealous English majors. It’s a delightful way to add a dash of drama to your correspondence, whether you’re penning a love letter, a formal complaint, or just a note to your cat. Here’s how to do it without sounding like a bad extra from a community theatre production.

The Basics: Thou, Thee, and Thy (Oh My!)

First things first: stop using “you” like some common 21st-century peasant. Shakespearean English has a whole system for addressing people, and it’s not just about adding “-eth” to random verbs.

Thou

/ðaʊ/

“You (singular, informal)”

Used when talking to one person you’re familiar with or of equal/lower status. Example: “Thou art a knave.”

Thee

/ðiː/

“You (object form)”

The object form of “thou.” Example: “I give thee this apple.”

Thy/Thine

/ðaɪ/, /ðaɪn/

“Your/Yours”

“Thy” before consonants (“thy horse”), “thine” before vowels or h (“thine apple,” “thine honour”).

Pro tip: If you’re addressing someone of higher status or being formal, use “you” instead. Save “thou” for friends, lovers, or people you’re about to duel.

Verb Conjugations: -est, -eth, and Other Nonsense

Shakespearean verbs love a good suffix. Here’s the quick and dirty guide:

Add “-est” to verbs when using “thou”: “Thou goest,” “Thou speakest.”
Add “-eth” for third-person singular: “He goeth,” “She speaketh.”
Irregular verbs exist, because of course they do. “Hath” (has), “doth” (does), and “art” (are) are the usual suspects.

Structure of a Shakespearean Letter

A proper Shakespearean letter isn’t just about swapping words - it’s about style. Here’s a template to get you started:

Salutation: Start with a flourish. “To mine dearest [Name]” or “To the most honourable [Name].”
Opening line: Set the tone. “I write unto thee with a heart full of [joy/despair/indignation].”
Body: Get to the point, but poetically. Use metaphors, insults, or declarations of love as needed.
Closing: End with a dramatic sign-off. “Farewell, lest my quill run dry” or “Yours in eternal servitude.”
Signature: “By mine own hand, [Your Name].” Bonus points for a wax seal.

Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

Overdoing the archaic words: Not every sentence needs “forsooth” or “prithee.” Use them sparingly, like salt in a stew.
Mixing up “thou” and “you”: Remember, “thou” is informal or for equals. “You” is for superiors or formal contexts.
Forgetting contractions: Shakespeare used ’em. “’Tis” (it is), “’twas” (it was), and “o’er” (over) are all fair game.

Warning: If your letter starts sounding like a bad pirate impression, you’ve gone too far. Shakespearean English ≠ Pirate Speak.

Example Letter (For Inspiration)

Here’s a sample to get your quill moving:

To mine dearest Beatrice,I write unto thee with a heart heavy as lead, for thou hast stolen mine affections and given naught in return. Thy beauty doth eclipse the sun, yet thy cruelty freeze mine soul. Prithee, send word if thou dost care, lest I perish from longing.Farewell, thou merciless enchantress.By mine own hand, Benedick

For more on using Shakespearean English in modern contexts, check out our guide on applying Shakespearean English today.

Final Tips

Read Shakespeare aloud to get a feel for the rhythm. It’s not just about the words - it’s the flow.
Keep a glossary handy. Even the Bard needed editors.
Have fun with it. If your letter doesn’t sound at least a little ridiculous, you’re not doing it right.

Now go forth and write letters worthy of the Globe Theatre. Or at least worthy of a chuckle from your recipient.