Meaning: Mark Rylance, a renowned actor, expressed his belief that Francis Bacon is the most likely candidate to be the author of the works attributed to William Shakespeare. This quote reflects the ongoing debate and speculation surrounding the true identity of the author behind the iconic literary works.

The question of who really wrote the plays and poems that have been traditionally attributed to William Shakespeare has been a topic of scholarly and public fascination for centuries. The traditional attribution of these works to Shakespeare, the son of a glove-maker from Stratford-upon-Avon, has been challenged by alternative theories proposing various candidates as the true author. Among these, Francis Bacon, a prominent figure in the Elizabethan era, has been suggested as a potential candidate by several scholars and public figures.

Francis Bacon, an English philosopher, statesman, scientist, and author, is known for his influential works in the fields of philosophy and science. Born in 1561, he held various high-ranking positions in the government and is often regarded as one of the key figures in the scientific revolution. Bacon's literary works, which include essays and philosophical writings, have also been the subject of admiration and scholarly study.

The belief that Bacon might have been the real author of Shakespeare's works is based on a variety of factors and theories put forth by proponents of the Baconian authorship theory. One of the main arguments in favor of Bacon's authorship is the perceived alignment between the themes, ideas, and writing style found in Shakespeare's works and the known intellectual and philosophical views of Bacon. Proponents of this theory argue that Bacon's extensive knowledge, intellectual prowess, and philosophical depth make him a more fitting candidate for the complex and profound content of Shakespeare's writings.

Furthermore, the lack of concrete evidence directly linking Shakespeare to the works attributed to him has also fueled skepticism and alternative theories regarding the true authorship. The relatively limited biographical information available about Shakespeare, as well as the absence of original manuscripts or definitive contemporary accounts directly connecting him to the literary works, have led some to question the traditional attribution.

It is important to note that the Baconian authorship theory is just one of several alternative theories that have been proposed to challenge the traditional attribution of Shakespeare's works. Other candidates, such as Christopher Marlowe, Edward de Vere, and even Queen Elizabeth I, have also been suggested as potential authors by proponents of alternative authorship theories.

In the realm of literary scholarship and historical research, the question of Shakespeare's authorship continues to be a topic of debate and investigation. While the majority of scholars and experts maintain the traditional attribution to William Shakespeare, the exploration of alternative theories and the ongoing fascination with the mystery of authorship serve as a testament to the enduring impact and intrigue of Shakespeare's works.

In conclusion, Mark Rylance's statement expressing his belief in Francis Bacon as the most likely candidate to be the author of Shakespeare's works reflects the enduring fascination with the question of authorship. The debate surrounding Shakespeare's true identity continues to inspire scholarly inquiry, public interest, and creative speculation, highlighting the enduring impact and mystery of the iconic literary works attributed to the Bard of Avon.