2. William Shakespeare

3. All the Worlds a Stage … Youve probably heard that phrase before, but do you know who said it? If you guessed Shakespeare, you are right. In fact, this playwright, more than any other in the entire history of the English language, has literally transformed the way we talk and think. Our language is filled with expressions that we now think of as clichestired, overworked phrasesthat actually came from the pen of Shakespeare. What did he say?

4. Shakespeares Language Legacy:...if your wish is father to the thought, if your lost property has vanished into thin air, you are quoting Shakespeare; if you have ever refused to budge an inch or suffered from green-eyed jealousy, if you have played fast and loose, if you have been tongue-tied, a tower of strength, hoodwinked or in a pickle... you are quoting Shakespeare -- Bernard Levin. From The Story of English.

5. Shakespeares Language Legacy: The Bard, as he was affectionately known, also coined many words that have now found common usage in our language. Here are a few: addictioncourtshipobscene advertisingcold-bloodedpuking birthplacedruggedrant bloodstainedhobnobskim milk blushingjadedzany For many more, see (http://shakespeare.about.com/library/weekly/aa042400a.htm) [source]http://shakespeare.about.com/library/weekly/aa042400a.htm

6. Shakespeares Language Legacy: A few other helpful hints: Annotate the text as you read. Mark passages that seem especially important or are hard to understand. We can discuss them. Look up unfamiliar words in the footnotes or in a dictionary Bring a sense of expectancynot dreadto the play; it will help you get more from it Use quality video versions or other online resources. Most of all, enjoy the play!