Introduction to Shakespeare

William Shakespeare 1564-1616 Most influential writer in the English language Most popular playwright in the world 4 centuries after his death, he is still very popular Plays filled with action Believable characters Thrilling language He had a great tolerance, sympathy, and love for all people, good or evil

Humble Beginnings Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England on April 23, 1564 His family was initially prosperous, but his father began having financial difficulties in the 1570s He attended Stratford’s Grammar School, but had no formal education

Stratford-upon-Avon

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

1582—(age 18) married Anne Hathaway (age 26) 6 months later they had a daughter, Susanna 1585—they had twins Hamnet & Judith 1583-1592-it is unknown what Shakespeare did Shakespeare’s son died at age 11

By 1592 Shakespeare was definitely in London working as an actor & playwright Between 1592 & 1594, plague kept the London theaters closed most of the time He wrote his earlier sonnets & 2 long narrative poems

Shakespeare Prospers Until 1598 his theater work was confined to 2 theaters The Theatre The Curtain Both were managed by James Burbage His son Richard was the greatest tragic actor of the time

Between 1596 & 1599 Shakespeare & the Burbages moved across the Thames River and built the Globe Theater Shakespeare was associated with the Globe for the rest of his active life

Went on to become the most successful playwright of his time Bought New Place, the largest house in Stratford for his family After the death of Queen Elizabeth I, King James I followed her to the throne King James became a patron of Shakespeare’s company (The King’s Men)

King James I

“The Scottish Play” Shakespeare wrote Macbeth in honor of King James After 1603 Shakespeare acted little

Later Years In 1610 Shakespeare retired from theater work & returned to Stratford In 1613 the Globe Theater burned He shared in the building of the new Globe He continued to write until his death He died on April 23, 1616 (52nd birthday) In 1623, Shakespeare’s collected plays were published

Shakespeare’s Works 37 plays 154 sonnets 2 long narrative poems

Three Types of Plays 10 Tragedies 17 Comedies 10 Histories