The Oxford Shakespeare believed to be partly by Shakespeare. The first two editions of the Norton Shakespeare, published by W.W. Norton, were largely based on the Oxford text, but departed from some of its decisions. The term 'Oxford Shakespeare' also refers to Oxford University Press's editions of individual Shakespeare plays and poems. These individual editions follow the same principles as the "Complete Works", but their editors are permitted to reject choices made for the "Complete Works" if they feel strongly; for example, David Bevington's edition of "Henry IV Part One" uses 'Falstaff' not 'Oldcastle'. The hardback editions feature distinctive purple dustjackets, while the
The Shakespeare Code makes reference to the many debates about Shakespeare's sexuality. Shakespeare flirts with Martha multiple times during the episode, and ultimately composes Sonnet 18 for her, calling her his "Dark Lady". This is a reference to the enigmatic female character in Shakespeare's Sonnets, although Sonnet 18 is in fact one of those addressed to a male character, the Fair Youth. Shakespeare subsequently flirts with the Doctor as well, at which the Doctor observes, "Fifty-seven academics just punched the air," a reference to the debates on this subject. There is a running joke throughout the episode in which the Doctor creates an