The boy frequently referenced in the film Shakespeare in Love is the character John Webster.
In the acclaimed 1998 film Shakespeare in Love, the character known as "the boy" is John Webster, portrayed by actor Joe Roberts.
Who is John Webster?
John Webster is depicted as a young boy who is fascinated by the theatrical world and, more specifically, by the gory and violent aspects of plays. He hangs around the Rose Theatre and is shown observing rehearsals and performances with keen interest. His presence often foreshadows his later career as a renowned playwright known for dark and tragic works.
According to the reference:
- Film: Shakespeare in Love (1998)
- Actor: Joe Roberts
- Character: John Webster
The Character's Role
While not a central figure in the main romantic plot, John Webster serves as a distinctive and memorable background character. His fascination with violence and death provides moments of dark humor and also connects to the theatrical themes of the era, where violence was a common element on stage. He is often seen making unsettling observations about the plays or potential plots.
Key Details about the Character
To make the information easy to grasp, here are some key points:
- Character Name: John Webster
- Actor: Joe Roberts
- Significance: A young boy who frequents the theatre, fascinated by violence.
- Later Life (Historical Context): The character is based on the real John Webster, who became a famous Jacobean playwright known for tragedies like The Duchess of Malfi.
Understanding the Role
The portrayal of John Webster adds a layer of historical context and theatrical atmosphere to the film. It suggests the environment where future playwrights might have been nurtured and the kinds of influences they might have absorbed from the vibrant, sometimes brutal, world of Elizabethan theatre.
In Summary:
When people refer to "the boy" in Shakespeare in Love, they are almost certainly talking about John Webster, the character played by Joe Roberts.
