William Shakespeare, renowned as the greatest dramatist in history, remains a monumental figure in literature. While his works are universally celebrated, much of Shakespeare’s personal life is veiled in mystery.
Who Was William Shakespeare?
William Shakespeare was an English poet, playwright, and actor who thrived during the Renaissance period. A key member of the King’s Men theatrical company from around 1594, Shakespeare’s extensive body of work—comprising at least 37 plays, 154 sonnets, and two narrative poems—captures the depth of human emotion and conflict. His contributions to literature have been revered for over 400 years, despite the limited details available about his personal life. Some believe that he was born and died on the same date, April 23, 52 years apart.
The Enigma of Shakespeare’s Life
The personal life of William Shakespeare is largely enigmatic. Historians rely on two main sources to outline his life: his literary works and official records like church and court documents. However, these sources offer only fragmented glimpses into his life, providing little insight into the man behind the masterpieces.
When Was Shakespeare Born?
Although no birth records exist, a church record reveals that William Shakespeare was baptized at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon on April 26, 1564. From this, scholars infer that he was born on or near April 23, 1564, a date widely accepted as his birthday. Stratford-upon-Avon, located about 100 miles northwest of London, was a vibrant market town along the River Avon during Shakespeare’s time.
Family Background
Shakespeare was the third child of John Shakespeare, a glove-maker and leather merchant, and Mary Arden, a local land heiress. John held various official positions, including alderman and bailiff, akin to a mayor. However, records suggest that his fortunes declined in the late 1570s, only to recover somewhat when he was granted a coat of arms in 1596, elevating his and his sons’ status to that of gentlemen.
John and Mary Shakespeare had eight children, though three did not survive childhood. William was the eldest surviving child, with three younger brothers and two younger sisters: Gilbert, Joan, Anne, Richard, and Edmund. Anne passed away at the age of seven, and Joan was the only sibling to outlive William.
Shakespeare’s Early Life and Education
Very few records document Shakespeare’s childhood, and almost none exist regarding his education. Scholars speculate that he likely attended the King’s New School in Stratford, where he would have studied reading, writing, and the classics, including Latin. He is believed to have left school at around 14 or 15, without attending university. The uncertainty surrounding his education has led some to question the authorship of his works.
Marriage and Children
William Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway on November 28, 1582, in Worcester, in Canterbury Province. Hathaway was from Shottery, a small village near Stratford. Shakespeare was 18 at the time, while Anne was 26 and already pregnant. Their first child, Susanna, was born on May 26, 1583. Two years later, on February 2, 1585, twins Hamnet and Judith were born. Tragically, Hamnet died at the age of 11.
The Lost Years of Shakespeare
There is a seven-year gap in Shakespeare’s life—between the birth of his twins in 1585 and his reappearance in 1592—during which no records exist. This period, known as Shakespeare’s “lost years,” has sparked much speculation. Some theories suggest he may have gone into hiding for poaching or worked as an assistant schoolmaster. Others believe he might have been in London, working as a horse attendant at theaters before making his mark as a playwright.
By 1592, Shakespeare had established himself as an actor and playwright in London, with several plays likely already produced. A 1592 article by playwright Robert Greene, published in the Stationers’ Register, criticized Shakespeare, suggesting he was overstepping his bounds as a playwright.
Shakespeare’s Sonnets
Shakespeare’s most famous poetry includes his 154 sonnets, first published as a collection in 1609 but likely written in the 1590s. Scholars categorize these sonnets into two groups: the Fair Youth sonnets, which address an aristocratic young man, and the Dark Lady sonnets, which focus on a mysterious woman. The identities of these subjects remain a topic of debate.
Life as an Actor and Playwright with The King’s Men
In 1594, Shakespeare joined Lord Chamberlain’s Men, later known as the King’s Men, a prominent London acting company. Shakespeare played a crucial role in the company’s success, initially as an actor and eventually as a writer. His first published plays, “Titus Andronicus” and “Henry VI Part 2,” appeared in 1594. By 1597, Shakespeare had likely written 16 of his 37 plays and had become financially successful.
Around this time, Shakespeare purchased New Place, one of the largest houses in Stratford, for his family. Though he spent most of his time in London, he likely returned home annually during the Lenten period when theaters were closed. Some scholars, however, suggest that Shakespeare may have spent more time in Stratford than previously thought, commuting to London as needed.
The Globe Theater
In 1599, Shakespeare and his fellow actors built the Globe Theater on the south bank of the Thames River. The first production at the Globe is believed to have been “Julius Caesar.” Owning the theater proved financially beneficial for Shakespeare and his partners. Unfortunately, the Globe burned down in 1613 during a performance of “Henry VIII,” but it was quickly rebuilt and reopened the following year. The theater was eventually demolished in 1644, though it was resurrected in 1997 and remains a popular tourist attraction today.
Shakespeare’s Legacy in Playwriting
Over roughly two decades, from 1590 to 1613, Shakespeare wrote 37 plays that explored themes of history, tragedy, and comedy. His early works adhered to the conventional style of the time, but he soon developed a unique approach, using a metrical pattern of unrhymed iambic pentameter—blank verse—and occasionally deviating from it to suit the narrative.
Many of Shakespeare’s early plays were histories, such as “Henry VI,” “Richard II,” and “Henry V,” which are often seen as justifying the origins of the Tudor Dynasty. Other historical plays include “Richard III,” “King John,” and the “Henry IV” series.
Shakespeare’s profound influence on literature and the performing arts continues to resonate today, with his works remaining a cornerstone of English literature and theater.