How did William Shakespeare influence Pushkin’s play Boris Godunov?

Aleksandr Pushkin’s historical tragedy Boris Godunov was significantly influenced by the works of William Shakespeare, particularly his histories and tragedies. Pushkin viewed Shakespeare as his master in achieving a bold, free treatment of character, simplicity, and truth to nature.1

Key aspects of this influence include:

• Folk-principles: Pushkin broke away from the Neoclassicism of the French theatre, instead constructing his play on Shakespearean folk-principles, aiming for a work that was universal in its appeal and written for the people.1
• Dramatic Structure: The play adopts a Shakespearean style by navigating between epic and drama, and by developing action on two distinct planes: one political and historical, and the other psychological.213
• Characterization and Dialogue: Pushkin utilized Shakespearean techniques to create convincing situations and natural dialogue, employing both conversational prose and a flexible five-foot iambic line.1
• Thematic Depth: Like Shakespeare’s histories, the play explores the complex relationship between the ruling classes and the masses, emphasizing the moral and political significance of the people's judgment.1