"Ben Jonson referred to Shakespeare as the 'sweet swan of Avon,' establishing his identity as a man of Stratford, yet his ties to London were profound."
"Lucy Munro uncovered a 1668 plan of Blackfriars that revealed the size and surroundings of Shakespeare's property, which was significant for its proximity to the Blackfriars Theatre."
"The house was substantial enough to be divided into two homes by 1645, indicating its importance beyond mere investment."
"Munro's findings challenge the narrative that Shakespeare made a swift retirement to Stratford, suggesting he remained engaged in London real estate."
Shakespeare's close ties to London are highlighted by the discovery of his residence in Blackfriars, identified through 17th-century property records. This location was significant as it was near the Blackfriars Theatre, where his company performed. The house, destroyed in the Great Fire of London, was substantial enough to be divided into two homes by 1645. Lucy Munro's research suggests that Shakespeare's ownership of the property was more than an investment, questioning the belief that he retired quickly to Stratford in 1613.
Read at Artnet News
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