William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare’s Life Born April 26, 1564 and Died April 23, 1616 Was an English Poet and playwright He wrote about 38 plays and 154 sonnets, as well as a variety of other poems. He was a very popular writer in his time, and became even more after his death. He is believed to be the most quoted writer in the history of the English Speaking World.

Shakespeare’s Works Plays He wrote about 38 plays, as well as a variety of other poems He wrote tragedies, histories, comedies and romances mainly Sonnets Wrote over 154 sonnets Usually based his themes on love, beauty, and mortality

Most Popular Plays Julius Caesar Macbeth Hamlet King John Richard II Henry IV, part 1 Henry IV, part 2 The Tempest A Midsummer Night's Dream Taming of the Shrew The Winter's Tale

Writing Style He transformed English theatre by using characterization, plot, action, language, and genre. His poetic artistry helped raise the status of popular theatre, allowing it to be admired, as well as for pure entertainment.

Reputation Shakespeare’s reputation has continued to grow even since his death. He has always been well regarded but was never considered to be the best poet of his age. Now in modern times, most people would consider him to be the greatest poet or writer in English History.

Speculations about Shakespeare Many people have questioned Shakespeare’s authorship, his religion, and even his sexuality. Most of it is questioned, due to the lack of information available about the author.