Today's Read Contributor Jodi Picoult’s latest novel, By Any Other Name, presents an intriguing narrative that weaves together the lives of two very different women from distinct time periods, but whose stories share a common thread of gender, identity, and the complexities of authorship. Set in both the 16th century and the present day, the novel explores the concept of literary identity, focusing on the experiences of Emilia Bassano, a historical figure some believe to be the true author of William Shakespeare’s works, and Melina Green, a modern-day playwright who adopts a male pseudonym to navigate the male-dominated literary world.
Emilia Bassano, who lived during the time of Shakespeare, has long been the subject of debate among scholars and historians. Some believe she wrote the plays attributed to Shakespeare, pointing to her intelligence, education, and proximity to the Elizabethan court. However, despite her potential role in the creation of these iconic works, history has largely relegated her to obscurity. In By Any Other Name, Picoult brings Emilia’s story to the forefront, reimagining her life and the challenges she faced as a woman in a patriarchal society. Emilia’s struggle with anonymity and the question of her true authorship is a powerful reflection on the broader themes of gender, power, and recognition in the world of literature.
In parallel, the novel follows Melina Green, a contemporary playwright who, in order to gain credibility in a competitive and often biased industry, takes on a male pseudonym. Melina’s journey serves as a poignant commentary on the ongoing struggles that women face in creative fields, where gender bias and systemic inequality continue to hinder their success. By adopting a male identity, Melina hopes to be taken seriously, but she also grapples with the tension between her authentic self and the persona she has created to gain acceptance.
Through the juxtaposition of these two women’s stories, Picoult challenges the conventional notion of authorship and highlights the difficulties that women, both historically and in the present day, face in securing their place in the literary canon. The novel raises important questions about how much of an author’s identity is shaped by external forces, and how gender plays a crucial role in the recognition and preservation of an author’s legacy.
By Any Other Name also delves into the broader societal implications of gender and identity in the creative arts. It explores how women, even today, often feel compelled to adopt male pseudonyms or alter their identities in order to succeed. The novel underscores the persistent barriers that women face in literature and other artistic fields, and challenges readers to reconsider the narratives of authorship and recognition that have shaped the history of literature.
In true Picoult fashion, the novel is not just a historical exploration, but also a deeply emotional journey. It prompts readers to reflect on the nature of authorship, the significance of identity, and the ways in which history often marginalizes the contributions of women. By bringing Emilia and Melina’s stories together, By Any Other Name becomes a compelling narrative about the power of storytelling and the ongoing fight for equality in the arts.
