Who Left His Wife His Second Best Bed in His Will?

Many people have heard the famous story of the man who left his wife his second best bed in his will, but do you know who it was?

The man in question was none other than the renowned playwright William Shakespeare. In his will, Shakespeare famously left his wife Anne Hathaway his "second best bed." While this may seem like a strange and somewhat unromantic gesture, there is actually a lot of speculation and debate surrounding the reasons behind this seemingly peculiar bequest.

Some historians believe that the second best bed was actually a symbol of intimacy and closeness between Shakespeare and his wife. In Elizabethan times, the best bed in the house was typically reserved for guests and important visitors, while the second best bed was the one that the couple shared. By leaving Anne Hathaway his second best bed, Shakespeare may have been expressing his love and devotion to her, as well as ensuring that she would have a comfortable place to sleep after his passing.

Others believe that the second best bed was simply a practical choice. The best bed was likely a valuable and ornate piece of furniture that would have been sold or passed down to their children, leaving the second best bed as the most logical choice for Anne Hathaway to inherit.

Regardless of the reasons behind Shakespeare's decision, the fact remains that the second best bed has become a symbol of his relationship with his wife and a point of fascination for scholars and fans alike. It serves as a reminder of the personal and human side of the legendary playwright, showing that even the most famous and revered figures in history have their own unique quirks and idiosyncrasies.

In conclusion, William Shakespeare left his wife Anne Hathaway his second best bed in his will, sparking curiosity and speculation among historians and literature enthusiasts. Whether it was a symbol of love and intimacy or a practical choice, the second best bed remains a fascinating aspect of Shakespeare's legacy and a testament to the enduring mystery and intrigue surrounding his life and work.

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