The ultimate storyteller is Shakespeare, who was able to get the 'groundlings' to laugh at his bawdy humor and storylines but could still be studied by scholars to this day for the complexity of his language, meter, and symbolism. That's the real guy.

In this quote, Jon Favreau praises William Shakespeare as the ultimate storyteller, recognizing his unique ability to captivate a wide audience with bawdy humor and engaging storylines while also providing depth and complexity that makes his works still relevant today. Favreau highlights the dual appeal of Shakespeare’s plays—how they could entertain the groundlings (the common audience) with humor and accessible plots, but also be deeply appreciated by scholars for the intricacy of his language, meter, and symbolism. This balance of accessibility and intellectual complexity is what Favreau admires about Shakespeare’s work.

Favreau points out that Shakespeare’s mastery lies in his ability to connect with different kinds of audiences. His works were not only popular for their entertainment value but also intellectually stimulating for those who examined his use of language and deeper meanings. By appealing to both the masses and scholars, Shakespeare became a universal storyteller, capable of bridging the gap between popular entertainment and high culture.

The phrase "That's the real guy" refers to the genius of Shakespeare, whose works continue to be studied and performed centuries after they were written. Favreau’s admiration for Shakespeare is a recognition of his profound influence on storytelling and theater. Shakespeare’s ability to engage diverse audiences with both humor and profound insights into the human condition is what makes him a timeless figure in the world of literature and drama.

Ultimately, Favreau’s quote underscores the versatility and enduring legacy of Shakespeare. He was not only a master of comedy and drama, but also a deep thinker whose works offer layers of meaning for those willing to explore them. Favreau highlights that Shakespeare’s ability to entertain and educate simultaneously is what makes him a true master of the craft of storytelling.