Discovering William Shakespeare: 5 Essential Pieces of Information
When you think of theatre, it is impossible not to think of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare. He is known for his astonishing ability to seamlessly blend tragedy, comedy, and romance in his plays. But what do we know about the man himself? What made him the literary genius that we revere till this day? This article discusses five essential pieces of information about Shakespeare that will give you a glimpse into the life of the master wordsmith.
1. Early life and Family
William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, on April 26, 1564, to John Shakespeare and Mary Arden. His father, John Shakespeare, was a successful glove-maker, and his mother, Mary Arden, was a member of a well-known local family. Shakespeare was the third child of the couple, and he had six siblings.
2. Career
Shakespeare started his career as an actor. He was associated with the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, which was a theater company. He performed in many plays, including some of his own. His first play was a comedy called “The Two Gentlemen of Verona.” He then went on to write over 30 plays, including 17 tragedies. His last play was “The Two Noble Kinsmen,” which he co-wrote with John Fletcher.
3. Works and Style
Shakespeare is famous for his use of language and his ability to craft compelling characters. He was a master of using literary devices such as metaphor, simile, allusion, and irony. His plays portray a wide range of human experiences, from love and hate to revenge and redemption.
4. Legacy
Shakespeare’s impact on English literature cannot be overstated. His plays have been translated into almost every language and performed more than any other play in the world. Shakespeare also introduced new words and phrases to the English language, including “bedazzled,” “fashionable,” and “eventful.” His influence can even be seen in modern-day theatre, with adaptations and modern interpretations of his works still being staged worldwide.
5. Death and Controversies
William Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616, and was buried in Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon. His death has been surrounded by several controversies, including conspiracy theories about whether he wrote all the plays attributed to him. However, despite the debates, Shakespeare’s talent and contribution to English literature remain unparalleled.
Conclusion
William Shakespeare’s life and works continue to fascinate readers and scholars worldwide. His legacy has survived the test of time, and his plays continue to be a source of inspiration for playwrights and performers. The five essential pieces of information discussed in this article give us an insight into the man behind the masterpieces. It’s safe to say that Shakespeare’s genius has made him a literary icon that will never be forgotten.
