Bowdler’s Day

July 11 is Bowdler’s Day, annually to commemorate Thomas Bowdler, the physician and philanthropist known for releasing a censored edition of Shakespeare’s works. Bowdler’s efforts made Shakespeare accessible to families by omitting scenes of violence and intimacy. Attitudes toward Bowdler are mixed, with some viewing him as a genius and others as a hypocrite. His censored editions were also more affordable than the originals.

History

Thomas Bowdler was born in 1754 in Bath, England. His father introduced him to Shakespeare’s works, omitting inappropriate scenes. As an adult, Bowdler published a family-friendly edition of Shakespeare. Unfortunately, he did not live to see its publication; it was released a year after his death, in 1826.

Interesting Facts

• By 1830, ‘bowdlerization’ meant the censorship of a work of art, often with a negative connotation. It involved removing vulgar and undesirable passages from texts.
• Bowdler’s Day prompts reflection on the importance of freedom of speech.
• Despite the negative connotations, Bowdler’s efforts made Shakespeare’s works more accessible and affordable.
• Bowdler earned a medical degree in 1776 and became a member of the Royal Society in 1781. He married Elizabeth Trevenen at 52 and died at 72 in Wales.

How to Take Part

Celebrate Bowdler’s Day by reading a banned book or watching a censored program or movie. Explore the differences between Shakespeare’s uncensored works and Bowdler’s versions. Share your thoughts on social media to spark discussions on censorship and freedom of speech.

When is Bowdler’s Day in 2024?

Bowdler’s Day is observed on July 11 each year.

Observations