William Shakespeare was an English poet, playwright, and actor of the Renaissance era. He was an important member of the King’s Men company of theatrical players from roughly 1594 onward. He authored thirty-seven plays, many of which are still recognized by people today, such as Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, and Macbeth.
It's hard to determine when Shakespeare was born as there were no birth records at the time, but an old church record indicates that Shakespeare was baptized at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon on April 26, 1563. Using this record, we can determine that he was born sometime around April 23rd, 1564. Scholars acknowledge this date as Shakespeare's presumed birthday.
Shakespeare grew up wealthy, but his father's fortune began to dwindle sometime in the late 1570s. Few records are available that allow scholars to analyze Shakespeare's education, and it is presumed he attended King's New School. Because he was the son of a public official, he would have undoubtedly qualified for free tuition to school, but this uncertainty regarding his education has led to many controversies.
In 1599, Shakespeare and a few of his business partners built their own theater, called the Globe Theater. At the time, theater wasn't a respected industry, but nobility frequented theaters and opera houses. In 1605, Shakespeare purchased real estate that doubled in value, and it is thought that during this time he was able able to compose his works in peace. It is not known whether Shakespeare composed his own works, and many names have been thrown around as the true creator of the plays.
It is unknown when and how Shakespeare died.
Fun Facts:
- Shakespeare's father was a jack of all trades. At one point he was paid to drink beer!
- Shakespeare's parents were probably illiterate, and his children almost certainly were.
- It is unknown what Shakespeare did between 1585 and 1592.
William Shakespeare:
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