Are all 'kings' in Shakespearean crossword clues historical figures?

Not necessarily. While many are historical English monarchs (like Henrys and Richards), some, such as King Lear or King Cymbeline, are figures from legends, mythology, or fictional creations. Always consider the specific context of the clue and the play it might refer to.

shakespearean king crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a puzzle and landed on 'shakespearean king crossword clue', you're in the right place. Below you'll find all the potential answers, categorized by their length, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect fit.

Solutions for "shakespearean king crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

LEAR: Refers to King Lear, the tragic protagonist of Shakespeare's play 'King Lear'.

JOHN: Refers to King John, the subject of Shakespeare's historical play 'King John'.

5 Letters

HENRY: A common answer referring to one of the many King Henrys featured in Shakespeare's history plays (e.g., Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI, Henry VIII).

6 Letters

DUNCAN: Refers to King Duncan, the Scottish king murdered by Macbeth in Shakespeare's tragedy 'Macbeth'.

7 Letters

RICHARD: Another frequent answer, often referring to King Richard III or King Richard II, both central figures in Shakespeare's history plays.

More About "shakespearean king crossword clue"

The works of William Shakespeare are a rich source for crossword clues, especially when it comes to his royal characters. His historical plays chronicle the lives of English kings, while his tragedies often feature monarchs facing profound moral dilemmas and catastrophic downfalls. When you encounter a clue like "shakespearean king," it prompts you to recall the vast gallery of rulers he brought to life.

From the noble and strategic Henry V to the tyrannical and deformed Richard III, and the aging, misguided King Lear, each character offers a unique persona that can be hinted at in a crossword clue. Understanding the most commonly clued kings and their respective play associations can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process. These answers are not just random names; they are pivotal figures in the history of English literature.

Crossword setters frequently use these iconic names because they are widely recognized and have distinct letter counts, making them perfect for fitting into grids. Keeping a mental list of common Shakespearean figures, particularly the kings, can be a valuable asset for any crossword enthusiast.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters your answer requires. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for clues like "shakespearean king."
Use Cross-References: If the clue is challenging, look for intersecting words. Letters from completed answers will often reveal crucial letters for your Shakespearean king, guiding you to the correct name.
Recall Play Context: Sometimes, the clue might hint at the play or a characteristic of the king (e.g., "Tragic king," "Scottish king"). This extra context can be the key to unlocking the answer.
Common Answers are Common for a Reason: Names like LEAR, HENRY, RICHARD, JOHN, and DUNCAN are popular crossword answers because they fit various grid patterns and are iconic. Start with these if you're stuck.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Shakespearean plays feature kings?

Many of Shakespeare's plays feature kings. His history plays, such as 'Richard III', 'Henry V', and 'King John', are entirely centered on English monarchs. Tragedies like 'King Lear' and 'Macbeth' also feature prominent royal characters as central figures.

How can I identify the correct Shakespearean king for a crossword clue?

To solve for a Shakespearean king, first consider the number of letters required and any cross-referenced letters. Also, think about common kings from his history plays (Henry, Richard, John) or tragedies (Lear, Duncan).

Are all 'kings' in Shakespearean crossword clues actual historical figures?

Not always. While many are historical figures (like the Henries or Richards), some, like King Lear or King Cymbeline, are legendary or mythological figures. Always check the context of the clue.