William Shakespeare

Biography

William Shakespeare, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist, was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564. His early life is not extensively documented, but he married Anne Hathaway at age 18 and had three children. By 1592, he was a prominent playwright and actor in London. He became a founding member of the Lord Chamberlain's Men (later the King's Men), a leading acting company. Over his career, he wrote approximately 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several other poems. His works include tragedies like 'Hamlet' and 'Macbeth,' comedies like 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' and histories like 'Richard III.' He retired to Stratford-upon-Avon around 1613 and died there in 1616. His plays are still performed and studied globally, profoundly influencing literature, theatre, and the English language.