Background Grew up in Stratford, England Middle class - dad glove maker, mom from landowners Married Anne Hathway (eight years older) Three children (one of the twins died at age 11)

Successes Became quite well off from: Being an actor Writing plays Especially from ownership in a theatre company

Types of Plays Comedy – all ends happily for the protagonist Tragedy – the protagonist dies History – based on historical reality but fictionalized

Performances Open roof Performed in afternoon Little stage design Few, if any, props Horrible accoustics Males only

Audience Queen Elizabeth reigned for much of his career James 1 st became king the last decade of his career Seats for every price point – rich and commoner could watch plays (yard cost penny – 10% of daily worker’s wage)

The Globe Located outside of London’s boundaries Built in 1599 Made in the circular Thatched roof Caught fire from a cannon from the play in 1613 Rebuilt a year later Uncovered recently and refurbished