What is the relationship of King James I to Shakespeare?

Answer 1

King James I became the patron of the Lord Chamberlain's men when he bacame king, and the company was renamed the King's Men. That made all of the actors the king's servants, including Shakespeare. Some people think Shakespeare wrote Macbeth in order to win the king's approval, although the story was written that way in his sources anyway. There is no record that Macbeth was played at court, and it is unlikely that Macbeth was the King's favourite play, as he appears to have preferred comedies. (He expressly asked for The Merchant of Venice for Shrove Tuesday in 1606--this really was one of his favourite plays) In any event, Shakespeare would not have had any personal relationship with the king, as kings and players did not mix socially.

Answer 2

Yes, although it was not the kind of relationship which would put them on speaking terms with each other. King James was the patron of the theatrical company to which Shakespeare belonged. That's like the relationship you would have to the sponsor of a team just because you play on that team.

Answer 3

Shakespeare's relationship with James I was highlighted with the compliment the sovereign paid to his play Macbeth. Shakespeare did very well ingratiating himself to James I and Elizabeth I.

Answer 4

" Shakespeare and the King held a special relationship as they both loved literature. Shakespeare even wrote his famous play, Macbeth, specifically for King James"