Little is Known of William Shakespeare's Life Except these Highlights

Beginning Born April 23rd 1564 In Stratford-on-Avon near London

His Family was “Well-Off” His Father John Shakespeare 2nd Bailiff (mayor) of Stratford His Mother Mary Arden Inherited land which was bequeathed to William William had 7 brothers and sisters

His Education He probably attended the free grammar school until 15.

He Married Anne Hathaway November 27, 1582 And they had 3 children She was 8 years older And they had 3 children Susanna Hamnet and Judith

He Lived in London Most of his life .. And had little to do with Stratford, although he became its third largest landowner and eventually retired there.

He Retired From the THEATER to his native Stratford sometime between 1611 and 1613.

He died on his 52nd Birthday April 23rd 1616 in Stratford

His Popularity on the Elizabethan stage and his universality continues today because he: Told good stories Created interesting characters Used language skillfully Engaged thinking and emotions of audiences Possessed poetic imagination

Shakespeare’s Company His company was called King’s Men acted together for 20 years.

Obstacles for the Theater Laws limited fabrics commoners could wear Objections because theater crossed class and gender boundaries pickpockets

Flags Red flag was for history. Black flag was for tragedy. White flag was for comedy.

Monologue-A character speaks while others are on stage Monologue-A character speaks while others are on stage. Everyone can hear it. Soliloquy-A speech given by a character who is alone on stage. Aside-Something is said while others are present, but they cannot hear it