John Heminges
Early Life and Background
John Heminges was born in 1566 in Droitwich, Worcestershire, England. His early life remains largely undocumented, but it is known that he moved to London as a young man. He became an apprentice to John Collins, a grocer, which was a common practice at the time for young men seeking to learn a trade. This apprenticeship likely provided Heminges with the skills and connections that would later prove invaluable in his career as a theatre professional and businessman.
Career in Theatre
The Lord Chamberlain's Men
Heminges is best known for his association with the Lord Chamberlain's Men, a prominent acting company in Elizabethan and Jacobean England. He joined the company in the early 1590s, around the same time as his lifelong friend and colleague, Henry Condell. The Lord Chamberlain's Men was the acting troupe that included William Shakespeare, and Heminges played a crucial role in its operations.
Roles and Responsibilities
While Heminges was an actor, his primary contributions to the company were administrative. He served as the company's business manager and was responsible for financial matters, including the collection of fees and the distribution of payments to the actors. His meticulous record-keeping and business acumen helped ensure the company's financial stability, allowing it to thrive during a period of intense competition among theatrical troupes.
The King's Men
In 1603, following the accession of King James I, the Lord Chamberlain's Men became the King's Men, receiving royal patronage. Heminges continued in his role as business manager, overseeing the company's finances and operations. This period marked a significant era for the company, as they performed regularly at the Globe Theatre and the Blackfriars Theatre, two of the most important venues in London.
The First Folio
One of Heminges' most enduring legacies is his involvement in the publication of the First Folio, the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays. Published in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare's death, the First Folio was compiled by Heminges and Condell. It included 36 plays, 18 of which had never been published before, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
Compilation and Publication
Heminges and Condell undertook the monumental task of gathering Shakespeare's plays, many of which existed only in manuscript form or as individual quartos. They worked with the printer Edward Blount and the publishers William Jaggard and Isaac Jaggard to produce the folio. Their dedication to this project was driven by a desire to honor their friend and colleague, as well as to provide a definitive collection of his works.
Impact and Legacy
The First Folio is considered one of the most important publications in English literature. It preserved many of Shakespeare's plays that might otherwise have been lost, including "Macbeth," "The Tempest," and "Julius Caesar." Heminges' role in its creation underscores his commitment to the preservation of theatrical art and his recognition of Shakespeare's enduring significance.
Personal Life
John Heminges married Rebecca Knell in 1588, and together they had at least 13 children. Despite his demanding career, Heminges was known to be a devoted family man. His personal life, much like his professional one, was marked by stability and responsibility. Heminges' family connections extended into his professional life, as his son William Heminges also became involved in the theatre business.
Death and Legacy
John Heminges passed away in 1630. He was buried at St. Mary Aldermanbury in London, the same church where his friend Henry Condell was interred. Heminges' contributions to the theatre and his role in preserving Shakespeare's works have ensured his place in history. His meticulous management and dedication to the arts have left an indelible mark on the world of theatre.