This study considers the figure of the bastard in the context of analogies of the family and the state in early modern England. The trope of illegitimacy, more than being simply a narrative or character-driven issue, is a vital component in the evolving construction and representation of British national identity in prose and drama of the sixteenth and early seventeenth century. Through close reading of a range of plays and prose texts, the book offers readers new insight into the semiotics of bastardy and concepts of national identity in early modern England, and reflects on contemporary issues of citizenship and identity.

Helen Vella Bonavita is Associate Professor at Edith Cowan University, Australia.

Table of Contents.

Introduction

Chapter 1: 'Now attest that those whom you call'd fathers did beget you'

Chapter 2: 'Give Grandam Kingdom': King John

Chapter 3: 'Gelded of his patrimony': Richard II

Chapter 4: 'Gave you kingdom: called you children': King Lear

Conclusion

Bibliography