The world of
crossword clues
is a magnificent landscape of linguistic trickery, clever misdirection, and the sheer joy of the “aha!” moment. Some clues are straightforward, a simple definition and letter count. Others, however, are masterpieces of wordplay, designed to make your brain twist and turn until the light bulb flickers on. Today, we’re diving deep into one such gem that’s been perplexing and delighting solvers: “Shakespearean character’s behind (6).”
At first glance, this
crossword clue
might conjure up a very literal, perhaps even comical, image. Is it a character known for their posterior? Or perhaps a phrase describing someone trailing after a famous figure from the Bard’s canon? The beauty, and often the frustration, of a truly great
crossword clue
lies in its ability to lead you down several garden paths before revealing the true destination.
Let’s unpack the first half: “Shakespearean character’s.” William Shakespeare, the towering titan of English literature, gifted us with an unparalleled galaxy of characters. From the tragic heroes like Hamlet and Othello to the mischievous Puck, the wise Portia, or the comical Bottom, his plays are teeming with unforgettable names. The sheer breadth of options here is daunting. Are we looking for a major player, a pivotal villain, or perhaps a lesser-known but equally significant individual who lends their name to a concept? This part of the
crossword clue
demands a wide-ranging appreciation for his work, pulling from tragedies, comedies, and histories alike.
Then comes the intriguing second part: “behind (6).” This is where the true genius of the
crossword puzzle
setter shines. The word “behind” is a semantic chameleon, capable of myriad interpretations. Is it literally referring to the posterior? Unlikely, given the sophistication usually found in such clues, though the initial chuckle it provides is part of the fun. Is it something that follows, as in “behind schedule”? Or something that is left
after
a character has departed, their legacy, perhaps, or a lingering effect? Could it be a word describing the supporting role of someone “behind” the scenes? Or a physical location, like being “behind” a curtain?
The “6” letters provide the crucial constraint, the lock on the puzzle box. It means that whatever Shakespearean character this refers to, their “behind” aspect must condense into a six-letter word. This isn’t just about knowing Shakespeare; it’s about understanding the subtle, often metaphorical, ways words can connect. It forces you to think laterally, to consider not just literal definitions but also idiomatic expressions, nuanced relationships, and the evocative power of language.
This type of challenging
crossword clue
is a masterclass in misdirection. It plays on our assumptions, encourages us to think literally, only to pull the rug out from under us with a clever twist. The journey from initial confusion to the triumphant recognition of the answer is what makes solving crosswords so addictive. It’s the moment when the pieces click into place, and you realize the elegance of the wordplay.
When you encounter a
crossword clue
like “Shakespearean character’s behind (6),” don’t just jump to the most obvious conclusion. Lean into the ambiguity. Explore the multiple meanings of each word. Think about how the two halves of the clue might intersect in a way that is less about direct definition and more about clever association or a less common interpretation. The satisfaction comes not just from filling in the grid, but from the intellectual workout, the linguistic detective work, and the sheer brilliance of the clue itself. Keep puzzling, and the answers will surely reveal themselves!
Available Answers:
BOTTOM.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 19 July 2025