1. Background to Macbeth
William Shakespeare

2. William Shakespeare: Early Life
Born in small town north of London
Father was a glove maker and held some political positions
Viewed plays and pageants as a boy
Married Anne Hathaway at 18 had a daughter and set of twin girls
Had very little formal education

4. Advancing Career Went to London to write and act
Became a member of an acting company and the lead writer and actor – shareholder as well
Often performed for Queen Elizabeth
Later performed for King James – Macbeth is said to be written for him
Returned to hometown to retire

5. Accomplishments Considered the world’s greatest dramatist.
Considered as England’s greatest poet.
Said to have a clear understanding of human nature and could relate it to anyone.
Wrote 37 plays and over 150 poems.
His plays are still read and performed and have been turned into many films.

6. Shakespearean Misconceptions
Shakespeare was a homosexual
Shakespeare is believed to have lived with another man for a time
However this is not proven and he was married w/ children
Shakespeare did not write his plays and sonnets
Because he had a limited education many scholars have argued that he did not write his own works