William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon and baptised on 26 April 1564. His actual birthdate is unknown, but is traditionally observed on 23 April or St. George's day. Born to John Shakespeare and Mary Arden, the daughter of an affluent landowning farmer Shakespeare was the third child of eight and the eldest surviving son as such he was sent to be educated. Shakespeare's father sent him to school though he struggled to afford it. Business had been poor. Due to record keeping being almost non existent during this time Shakespeare's school has never truly been found. Bur most agree that it was King's New School in Standford.

He dare not leave the house for fear of being arrested because of his debts when he goes outside. He wished he could leave this school and work to help his parents. He wanted to be a poet.

In 1582 at the age of eighteen, Shakespeare was married to Anne Hathaway and had a child on the way. He ended up having not one child, but twins. He named them Hamnet and Judith. There was an accusation of poaching against Shakespeare. So Shakespeare left for London where he would be safe and be able to make a decent living for his family.

In London, Shakespeare's plays were popular. He was a success.

By 1597, he had restored his family name in Stratford. They had a coat of arms from the crown for their loyal service. Shakespeare had a fine house for when he wants a break from London. Sadly, his son Hamnet died last year before he could see his father's success. Queen Elizabeth admired his work and supported him. Shakespeare built a theater in London which Shakespeare was the only writer and owner of. He called this theater The Globe.

In 1612, Shakespeare did little writing. He left and lived a settled life in Stratford. He was a grandfather by then, his granddaughter's name was Elizabeth. Shakespeare was respectable. A leading local citizen. In order to keep himself busy, Shakespeare would sometimes entertain the local squires and visit his old theater.

Shakespeare passed away on April 23, 1616.

In 1623, Shakespeare's plays were printed in one volume and were performed over and over again. But at first the people did not like his plays. Some people did not like the violence and misery in his tragedies, some even claimed Shakespeare did not even write them himself.

Shakespeare is a classic author. Schools now study him and look into depth at every word. Shakespeare's plays are now performed and enjoyed by modern audiences as they were meant to be.