World’s most famous British playwriter. William Shakespeare! World’s most famous British playwriter.

Who was William Shakespeare? Shakespeare lived around the late 16th century and early 17th century, and in between the rules of Queen Elizabeth I, and King James I. Both of them saw some of the plays he wrote, which are still performed today. Some of the phrases that Shakespeare wrote have even become parts of our everyday language!

When was he born? When did he die? William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in April 1564. The exact date of his birth is not recorded, but it is most often celebrated around the world on 23 April. Shakespeare also died on 23 April; in 1616, when he was 52 years of age. Shakespeare’s burial at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford Upon Avon is documented as happening on 25th April 1616. In keeping with traditions of the time it’s likely he would have been buried two days after his death, meaning Shakespeare likely died 23rd April 1616 – his 52nd birthday.

What type of plays did he used to make? His plays are of different kinds, or genres. There are histories, tragedies and comedies. These plays are among the best known in the English language and are studied in schools around the world. Shakespeare wrote his works between about 1590 and 1613.

Here are some pictures of William Shakespeare. A famous painting! Our play we are performing!

What was William Shakespeare’s childhood like? William Shakespeare grew up in a crowded house in Stratford- upon-Avon, England. He lived with his parents, John and Mary with 5 young brothers and sisters. His father John Shakespeare was a glove maker and an important person, he was almost like a Mayor.

How was William Shakespeare’s Sister like? William Shakespeare’s family was not large by standards of the time. Shakespeare’s sister, Joan Shakespeare, was his only sibling to survive him. She was five years younger than him and much loved by him.

Pictures of William Shakespeare and his family!

What happened to his plays? During his life, Shakespeare wrote at least 37 plays and a number of poems! That we know of. In addition there are a number of “lost plays” and plays that Shakespeare collaborated on. This means Shakespeare wrote an average 1.5 plays a year since he first started writing in 1589.

Some more facts of William Shakespeare! He was a brilliant businessman – forming a joint- stock company with his actors meaning he took a share in the company’s profits, as well as earning a fee for each play he wrote. Shakespeare never actually published any of his plays. They are known today only because two of his fellow actors – John Hemminges and Henry Condell – recorded and published 36 of them which is the source of all Shakespeare published books.

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