 The scholars argue Shakespeare lacked sufficient education |
Literature enthusiasts are to honour a nobleman who died 400 years ago who they say was the "real" Shakespeare. Scholars believe Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxford, used "William Shakespeare" as a pen-name when he wrote some of the most famous English poems and plays.
The De Vere Society argues he was more likely to be responsible for the works than the historical Shakespeare as he was far better educated and travelled.
De Vere lived from 1550 to 1604 and his death is being marked on Thursday.
De Vere had degrees from both Oxford and Cambridge universities and had connections at Elizabeth I's court, while the historical Shakespeare came from a much more modest background, according to the group.
A spokesman for the society said: "It is time to accept that the name `Shakespeare' was almost certainly a pseudonym for the real writer of genius.
"We now need to look for the author elsewhere in the Elizabethan world."
The De Vere Society will hold the main celebrations on Saturday in London.
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