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William Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1616, in Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom. -
Just 3 days after his birth, William Shakespeare was baptised. -
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William studied Latin and classical authors; it is believed he attended King Edward VI Grammar School. (1571-78)
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At only 18 years of age, he married Anne Hathaway. -
Susan was baptised. Now, there isn't an exact date of when she was born, but we can assume it was mid-May.
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Anne gave birth to Hammet and Judith. Although there isn't an exact date, we do know that they were born in 1585. -
Robert Greene insulted him as an “upstart crow,” proving Shakespeare had joined London’s theater world.
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The plague forced London theaters to close, so Shakespeare turned to writing poetry like Venus and Adonis.
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He wrote and published this popular narrative poem during the time he had the plug. -
Shakespeare became part of Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a major acting company, which performed many of his plays. -
While this was a tragedy to William and his family, it also granted them a coat of arms, which raised their status from commoners to “gentlefolk.” This also helped boost Shakespeare’s reputation and career. -
He purchased one of the largest houses in Stratford. -
His company built the Globe Theatre, where many of his greatest plays were performed. -
Shakespeare wrote Hamlet, a defining work of English drama. -
After Elizabeth’s death, James I took the throne and became patron of Shakespeare’s company. -
He produced King Lear, Macbeth, and Othello, exploring themes of power and betrayal. -
His 154 sonnets were published, showcasing his poetic skill. -
Shakespeare returned to Stratford, living quietly after decades in London. -
He finalized his will, leaving possessions to his daughters and the “second-best bed” to his wife. -
Shakespeare died at 52 and was buried at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon. -
Friends published the First Folio, preserving 36 of his plays for future generations. -
David Garrick held a grand festival in Stratford that celebrated Shakespeare’s legacy.