Bowdler’s Day

July 11 is Bowdler’s Day, a holiday that commemorates Thomas Bowdler, the physician and philanthropist known for releasing a censored edition of Shakespeare’s works. Bowdler’s efforts made Shakespeare more accessible to families by omitting scenes of violence and intimacy. Attitudes toward his work remain mixed—some view him as a moral reformer, others as a censor. His editions were also more affordable than the original publications.

History

Thomas Bowdler was born in 1754 in Bath, England. His father introduced him to Shakespeare’s works, deliberately omitting inappropriate content. As an adult, Bowdler published a family-friendly edition of Shakespeare’s plays. Sadly, he did not live to see its release—it was published a year after his death in 1826.

Interesting Facts

• By 1830, the term “bowdlerization” came to mean censoring a literary or artistic work, often with a negative connotation.
• Bowdler’s Day invites reflection on the value of freedom of expression and literary integrity.
• Despite criticism, Bowdler helped make Shakespeare’s works more widely available and family-friendly.
• Bowdler earned a medical degree in 1776, became a member of the Royal Society in 1781, married Elizabeth Trevenen at 52, and died at age 72 in Wales.

How to Take Part

Celebrate Bowdler’s Day by reading a banned book or watching a censored film or TV episode. Compare Shakespeare’s original texts with Bowdler’s edited versions. Use the opportunity to start a conversation about censorship and artistic freedom on social media or with friends.

When is Bowdler’s Day in 2025?

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

Observations