The Intriguing Meaning of 'Corn' in Shakespeare's Time

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Meaning of "Corn" in Shakespeare's Time
   1. The Historical Context
   2. The Different Interpretations of Corn
3. The Introduction of Maize to Europe
4. The Struggle to Describe Maize in Europe
   1. The Use of Familiar Terms
   2. Turkey Wheat and Corn
5. The Corn Famine of 1608
   1. The Impact of Torrential Rains
   2. Shortage of Agricultural Crops
6. The Rise in Prices and Hoarding Practices
   1. Skyrocketing Prices of Ale and Bread
   2. Official Proclamations and Sermons Against Hoarding
7. The Food Riots in England
8. Shakespeare's "Coriolanus"
   1. Based on Plutarch's Version
   2. Reflection of Real-Life Riots
9. Conclusion
10. Resources

🌽 Did Shakespeare Have Corn?

In 17th-century England, William Shakespeare grappled with the evolving meanings of words. One intriguing word with varied interpretations was "corn." While we may associate corn with the plant that produces kernels, its significance was different in Shakespeare's time. This article aims to delve into the meaning of "corn" during Shakespeare's era and explore its historical context.

The Meaning of "Corn" in Shakespeare's Time

The Historical Context

In the 16th century, the word "corn" encompassed a broader definition. It referred to any seed-producing plant suitable for making bread, cereals, and other baking necessities. Notably, ale, the popular beverage in England, was considered a product of corn. This definition offers a glimpse into understanding the language used during Shakespeare's lifetime.

The Different Interpretations of Corn

Across Europe, the word "corn" took on various meanings depending on the region. In Scotland, it referred to oats, while in England, it encompassed wheat. In other parts of Europe, it extended to include barley. The 16th century witnessed the diverse applications of the term, confounding its specific connotation.

The Introduction of Maize to Europe

Europe encountered maize, which Native Americans referred to as "maize," for the first time in the 15th century after Columbus discovered it in what is now the United States. While Europe already had seed-bearing plants resembling corn, such as wheat, barley, and oats, it lacked the maize variety. Consequently, European colonists resorted to using familiar terms to comprehend and describe this newfound grain.

The Struggle to Describe Maize in Europe

The Use of Familiar Terms

England faced challenges in describing this new food, leading to interchangeability between maize and other grains. In Gerard's Herbal, published in 1597, a diagram of what is now known as corn was included, accompanied by descriptions associating it with "turkey wheat" and other grain varieties. The use of interchangeable terms offered a glimpse into the linguistic struggles of the time.

Turkey Wheat and Corn

The term "turkey wheat" emerged because both the grain and the bird arrived in Europe by traversing the Ottoman Empire, also known as Turkey. These introductions shared the common moniker due to their transportation routes. Such historical connections added to the complexity of the term "corn" during Shakespeare's time.

The Corn Famine of 1608

In 1608, England experienced a significant agricultural crisis known as the Corn Famine. Torrential rains ravaged the crops, resulting in extensive damage and shortages of corn, wheat, barley, and oats. This scarcity led to a rapid escalation in the prices of essential food items, including ale and bread.

The Rise in Prices and Hoarding Practices

Skyrocketing Prices of Ale and Bread

As the scarcity of corn and other grains intensified, the prices of ale and bread soared. This surge in prices burdened the general population, especially the less privileged, who struggled to afford basic food commodities. The increased prices had a direct impact on the living conditions and dietary options of the people during that time.

Official Proclamations and Sermons Against Hoarding

The authorities recognized the severity of the crisis and issued proclamations condemning hoarding practices. Even sermons were delivered, urging the public to resist the temptation of excessive stockpiling. However, despite these admonitions, hoarding persisted, exacerbating the already critical situation and further inflating food prices.

The Food Riots in England

The dire circumstances triggered a series of food riots in England. Between 1586 and 1631, the country experienced at least 40 such riots. These collective protests were an expression of the people's frustration and desperation over the lack of access to affordable food.

Shakespeare's "Coriolanus"

Shakespeare's play "Coriolanus," written around 1608, includes a scene portraying a riot over corn. While the play is based on Plutarch's version of the story, this particular scene is unique to Shakespeare's rendition. It reflects the real-life food riots that were taking place during his time, providing a glimpse into the struggles faced by the citizens of London in 1608.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shakespeare did encounter corn during his lifetime, albeit with a different meaning than how we perceive it today. The nuanced understanding and usage of the word "corn" during Shakespeare's era shed light on the historical context and linguistic challenges of the time. The Corn Famine of 1608 serves as evidence of the impact of agricultural crises on society, as reflected in Shakespeare's depiction of riots in his play "Coriolanus."

Resources

• More information on the history of the Corn Famine and Shakespeare's "Coriolanus"

🌽