New research suggests that the bond between William Shakespeare and his spouse, Anne Hathaway, might have been more joyful than previously assumed.

For over two centuries, it has been widely held that Shakespeare abandoned his wife in Stratford-upon-Avon when he moved to London, and the fact that he left her nearly nothing in his will has led many to conclude that he harbored resentment toward her.

However, an analysis of a fragment of a letter addressed to “good Mrs. Shakespeare” indicates that they likely resided together in central London during the years 1600 to 1610.

This study was conducted by Professor Matthew Steggle from the University of Bristol’s English Department.

The letter, which was fortuitously preserved within the binding of a book in Hereford, suggests that Shakespeare was withholding funds from an orphan named John Butts, requesting Mrs. Shakespeare to provide the money instead.

Yet, she shows her loyalty to her husband by advising the letter’s author that it is their responsibility to find the funds.

Professor Steggle noted, “Though this letter has been known since 1978, no one was able to pinpoint the individuals or locations involved, nor could they determine whether the Mr. Shakespeare mentioned was indeed William or another namesake from that era.

“It sheds light not only on the Shakespeares’ marriage but also offers insights into Shakespeare’s connections in London.

Additionally, if the handwriting on the reverse side of the letter is indeed a response, it could represent the earliest known piece of writing attributed to Anne Hathaway.”

The letter mentions the boy as a fatherless apprentice, and through his investigation, Professor Steggle identified a single individual named John Butts in London who fits this description.

The document also alludes to Trinity Lane, and of the four married couples with the surname Shakspaire (the period’s spelling) found in London at that time, only William and Anne are likely to have inhabited what was regarded as a moderately affluent area.

“This discovery essentially doubles the number of letters known to be linked to Shakespeare and his family,” Professor Steggle remarked.

“Until now, there was just one documented letter. This also reveals a facet of Shakespeare’s life in London that has not been explored before, introducing a new address at Trinity Lane and expanding his circle of activity.”

Professor Steggle emphasized that this research “opens the door” to the possibility that Shakespeare’s wife spent a considerable amount of time with him in the city.