Quotations from Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, born in Stratford-upon-Avon in April 1564, was an eminent English playwright, poet, and actor. His birth date is unknown, but is traditionally celebrated on 23 April. He was the eldest surviving son of John Shakespeare, a glove maker and local alderman, and Mary Arden. Likely educated at the King’s New School in Stratford, he received a grounding in Latin and classical literature.

In 1582, Shakespeare (aged 18) married Anne Hathaway, 26. They had three children: Susanna, and the twins Hamnet and Judith. Hamnet died of unknown causes at the age of 11.

Shakespeare’s London theatrical career began at some point after 1585, with several of his plays staged by 1592. He became part-owner of the theatrical group the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, later the King’s Men, who achieved significant success through their exclusive performances of his works.

Shakespeare’s literary output, predominantly between 1589 and 1613, includes 39 accredited plays, 154 sonnets, and several long poems. His early works were comedies and histories, his later plays tragedies including “Hamlet,” “Othello,” “Macbeth,” and “King Lear” and, ultimately, he chose to write tragicomedies. As a playwright, and sonneteer, he remains central to English literature.

Shakespeare’s prosperity grew with his fame, supporting his 1597 purchase of New Place in Stratford and investment in local tithes in 1605. He continued acting while writing, appearing in various plays, his career declining post-1610.

Retiring to Stratford around 1613, Shakespeare died on 23 April 1616, aged 52. The cause of his death remains unknown. He left most of his estate to his daughter Susanna, with a notable bequest of his “second best bed” to his wife Anne. Shakespeare was interred in the Holy Trinity Church, Stratford, where a monument and epitaph commemorate his legacy. His enduring influence was cemented by the posthumous 1623 publication of the “First Folio,” a comprehensive collection of his works.

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