William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest writer in the English language, was a poet, playwright, and actor born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, around April 23, 1564. He is widely known for his profound understanding of human nature and his ability to create compelling characters and stories that have transcended time.
Life and Career
- Birth and Early Life: Shakespeare was the son of John Shakespeare, a glove-maker, and Mary Arden, daughter of a wealthy landowner. He was the third of eight children and was likely educated at the King's New School in Stratford.
- Marriage and Family: At the age of 18, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, who was eight years his senior. They had three children: Susanna Hall, Hamnet Shakespeare, and Judith Quiney.
- London Career: Sometime after 1585, Shakespeare moved to London where he became an actor, playwright, and later a part-owner of the Lord Chamberlain's Men company, which later became known as the King's Men after King James I ascended the throne in 1603.
- Works: Shakespeare wrote at least 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and several other poems. His works include tragedies like Hamlet, Macbeth, and King Lear; comedies such as A Midsummer Night's Dream and Twelfth Night; histories like Henry V; and romances like The Tempest.
- Later Life and Death: By around 1613, Shakespeare had retired to Stratford, where he died on April 23, 1616, aged 52. He is buried at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Legacy
Shakespeare's influence on English literature, language, and culture is immense. His works have been translated into every major living language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright. His impact extends beyond literature into areas like film, television, and even politics with phrases from his plays entering common usage. His exploration of themes like love, power, revenge, ambition, and the human condition continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Shakespearean Sources and Criticism
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