The inscription on William Shakespeare's grave is a renowned warning rhyme intended to deter the disturbance of his remains. It reads: "Good friend, for Jesus' sake forbear, to dig the dust enclosed here. Blessed be the man that spares these stones, And cursed be he that moves my bones."
The Unique Epitaph
Unlike many graves that bear the deceased's name, Shakespeare's burial place is marked instead by this powerful, poetic curse. This inscription reflects a common fear of the time: the disturbance of graves, whether for reburial, the study of anatomy, or the collection of relics. Shakespeare, keenly aware of such practices, crafted this specific verse to ensure his eternal rest would remain undisturbed.
The Full Text of the Grave Inscription
The exact words carved into the stone slab covering Shakespeare's grave are a four-line rhyme:
| Line Number | Inscription Text |
|---|---|
| 1 | Good friend, for Jesus' sake forbear, |
| 2 | To dig the dust enclosed here. |
| 3 | Blessed be the man that spares these stones, |
| 4 | And cursed be he that moves my bones. |
Historical Context and Purpose
In the 17th century, the fear of grave desecration was widespread. Bodies were sometimes exhumed for various reasons, including the clearing of churchyards, anatomical study, or even the theft of bones. Shakespeare's choice of a warning rhyme, rather than a traditional eulogy or biographical details, strongly suggests his profound wish to prevent his body, particularly his bones, from being moved. This desire for an undisturbed burial was a personal plea, etched permanently into his resting place.
Location of Shakespeare's Grave
William Shakespeare's grave is located inside the Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, where he was baptized and regularly attended services. His tomb lies beneath the floor of the chancel, near the altar, a prestigious burial spot within the church.
Modern Discoveries and the Inscription's Legacy
Despite the formidable curse, modern scientific investigations have revealed intriguing insights into the grave's contents. A radar scan conducted in recent years suggested that Shakespeare's skull might be missing from the grave. While the exact circumstances remain a mystery, this discovery adds a poignant layer to the enduring power and unfulfilled intent of the inscription, highlighting a potential historical disturbance that the famous curse aimed, unsuccessfully, to prevent.
