Shakespeare was born in provincial Stratford and died there, but made his theatrical career in metropolitan London. These facts played a key role in a number of fictions concerned with the contrast between city and countryside. One popular myth about Shakespeare was that of his flight to London after stealing a deer from a local squire. This provided the basis for many fictions which sought to reconcile Shakespeare’s supposed love of Nature with his decision to leave Stratford and make his career in the city. Such fictions pit Shakespeare against the squire Sir Thomas Lucy, who is all-powerful in the countryside but less so in the city, which offers more opportunities for talented commoners. Besides, from a youthful prank the poaching gradually develops into a conscious political act of protest against aristocratic privilege. Other fictions reflect the rivalry between Stratford and London over commemorations of Shakespeare. Sometimes Stratford is the proper shrine for bardolators, as Shakespeare derived his inspiration from its natural surroundings and inhabitants. Other fictions represent Stratford as a provincial backwater, from which Shakespeare needs to be saved also after his life, by the sophistication of the capital.