Nahum Tate (1652-1715) was an Irish poet and lyricist. He is perhaps best known for rewriting some of Shakespeare’s plays, changing bits that audiences might have found uncomfortable viewing. His version of 'King Lear' (named 'The history of King Lear') famously ended with Cordelia surviving and marrying Edgar, very different from the original tragic text! Tate's adaptations were so popular that they were the standard texts performed for many years. 

In a letter published at the front of 'The history of King Lear', Tate explained how he felt about rewriting it:

‘Nothing but the Power of your Persuasion, and my Zeal for all the Remains of Shakespear, cou’d have wrought me to so bold an Undertaking’ 

Image credit

'The history of King Lear, acted at the Queen’s Theatre. Reviv’d with alterations'

Nahum Tate

1689

Printed for R. Bentley and M. Magnes, London