William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, often called the English national poet and the "Bard of Avon", is widely considered the greatest dramatist of all time.

William Shakespeare

In addition, he was an English poet, playwright, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. His extant works, including some collaborations, consist of about 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and a few other verses, the authorship of some of which is uncertain. Shakespeare was born and brought up in Stratford-upon-Avon. At the age of 18, he married Anne Hathaway, with whom he had three children: Susanna, and twins Hamnet and Judith.

William Shakespeare

Between 1585 and 1592, he began a successful career in London as an actor, writer, and part-owner of a playing company called the Lord Chamberlain's Men, later known as the King's Men. From roughly 1594 onward he was an important member of the Lord Chamberlain’s Men company of theatrical players. Shakespeare produced most of his known work between 1589 and 1613.

Shakespeare died on 23 April 1616, at the age of 52. He died within a month of signing his will, a document which he begins by describing himself as being in "perfect health".Shakespeare was buried in the chancel of the Holy Trinity Church two days after his death.

Shakespeare has been commemorated in many statues and memorials around the world, including funeral monuments in Southwark Cathedral and Poets' Corner in Westminster Abbey.