William Shakespeare Wife – Shakespeare Biography, Early life, Wife, Children, Poems, Plays, Precious Words Interesting Facts

Who was William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and one of the most significant figures in world literature. He is known for his contributions to the development of the English language and for his prolific body of work, including plays, sonnets, and poems.

Shakespeare’s works encompass a wide range of genres, including tragedies (such as “Hamlet” and “Macbeth”), comedies (like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Twelfth Night”), histories (including “Henry IV” and “Richard III”), and romances (such as “The Tempest” and “Pericles”). His writing is characterized by its vivid characters, intricate plots, and profound exploration of human nature, making it timeless and still widely performed and studied today.

William Shakespeare’s Early Life Education and Parents

William Shakespeare’s early life, education, and family background are not extensively documented, and there are gaps in our knowledge. However, here’s what is known about these aspects of his life:

Early Life:

Birth: William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, on April 26, 1564. He was baptized on April 26, 1564, and it is assumed that he was born a few days earlier, making his exact birthdate unknown.

Family: He was the third of eight children born to John Shakespeare, a glove-maker and successful merchant, and Mary Arden, the daughter of a prosperous landowning farmer. His family was of relatively high social standing in Stratford.

William Shakespeare’s nationality

William Shakespeare was English by nationality. He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564, and he spent most of his life in England. His works are considered some of the greatest contributions to English literature, and he is often referred to as the national poet of England. While the concept of modern nation-states didn’t exist in the same way during his time, he is unquestionably associated with the English language, culture, and literary tradition.

Education:

Grammar School: Shakespeare attended the King’s New School in Stratford, which is now referred to as the King Edward VI School. Here, he would have received a basic education in Latin and the classics. This education likely included grammar, rhetoric, and other subjects, but it would not have been as extensive as the education received by the nobility or at universities.

Lack of University Education: There is no definitive evidence that Shakespeare attended a university, and it is generally believed that he did not pursue higher education. This has led to speculation about how he acquired his extensive knowledge of various subjects, languages, and cultures.

Marriage and Family:

Marriage: In 1582, at the age of 18, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, who was eight years older than him. They had three children: Susanna and twins Hamnet and Judith. Hamnet, unfortunately, died at a young age.

Later Life and Career: After his marriage, Shakespeare moved to London, where he began his career in the theater. He became a successful playwright and actor, eventually becoming a key figure in the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a renowned acting company. He later became a shareholder in the Globe Theatre and the Blackfriars Theatre. His works gained popularity, and he became a prominent playwright during the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras.

William Shakespeare’s wife

William Shakespeare’s wife was Anne Hathaway. Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway in 1582. Anne Hathaway was from Shottery, a village near Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was born. She was eight years older than him at the time of their marriage. The couple had three children: Susanna and twins, Hamnet and Judith. Anne Hathaway outlived her husband, and William Shakespeare passed away in 1616.

Shakespeare’s relationship with Anne Hathaway is relatively less documented compared to his professional life, and there have been various speculations and interpretations of their relationship over the years. Despite the limited historical information available, it is known that they were married and had children together, and Anne Hathaway is the woman traditionally recognized as Shakespeare’s wife.

William Shakespeare’s siblings

William Shakespeare had several siblings. He was the third of eight children born to John Shakespeare and Mary Arden. Here are the names of his siblings:

Joan Shakespeare – Joan was William’s older sister. She lived to adulthood and married a hatter named William Hart.

Margaret Shakespeare – Margaret was another older sister. She also survived into adulthood and married a man named John Hart.

Gilbert Shakespeare – Gilbert was William’s younger brother. He worked as a haberdasher and lived in London.

Joan Shakespeare (the second Joan) – After the first Joan died in infancy, William’s parents had another daughter and named her Joan, who also died young.

Anne Shakespeare – Anne was another younger sister, but like her siblings, she did not become as well-known as William.

Richard Shakespeare – Richard was William’s younger brother and is known to have outlived his famous brother.

Edmund Shakespeare – Edmund was the youngest of the Shakespeare siblings and became an actor, like his brother William. He was a member of a theater company known as the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, the same company to which William belonged.

William Shakespeare’s poems

William Shakespeare wrote a collection of 154 sonnets, as well as several narrative poems during his lifetime. These poems are separate from his plays and are a significant part of his literary legacy. Here are some of his most notable poems:

Sonnets:

“Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day?” (Sonnet 18)
“When in Disgrace with Fortune and Men’s Eyes” (Sonnet 29)
“Let Me Not to the Marriage of True Minds” (Sonnet 116)
“My Mistress’ Eyes Are Nothing Like the Sun” (Sonnet 130)
“The Sonnets” (a collection of 154 poems)
Shakespeare’s sonnets are some of the most famous and widely studied poems in the English language. They explore themes of love, beauty, time, and the complexities of human emotions.

Narrative Poems:

“Venus and Adonis” (1593)
“The Rape of Lucrece” (1594)
“The Phoenix and the Turtle” (1601)
“A Lover’s Complaint” (published with the sonnets)
“Venus and Adonis” and “The Rape of Lucrece” are two narrative poems that were published during Shakespeare’s lifetime and were dedicated to his patron, the Earl of Southampton. These poems were written in a style that was popular in the Elizabethan era and are known for their vivid descriptions and complex characters.

“The Phoenix and the Turtle” is a short allegorical poem, and “A Lover’s Complaint” is a narrative poem that tells the story of a woman lamenting her lost love.

Shakespeare’s poetry, like his plays, showcases his mastery of language, imagery, and the human experience. His works continue to be celebrated for their literary quality and timeless themes.

William Shakespeare’s Plays

William Shakespeare wrote a total of 39 plays, which can be categorized into three main genres: tragedies, comedies, and histories. His plays are known for their timeless themes, complex characters, and profound exploration of human nature. Here’s a list of Shakespeare’s plays, grouped by genre:

Tragedies:

“Hamlet”
“Othello”
“Macbeth”
“King Lear”
“Romeo and Juliet”
“Julius Caesar”
“Antony and Cleopatra”
“Coriolanus”
“Titus Andronicus”
“Troilus and Cressida”

Comedies:

11. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

“Much Ado About Nothing”
“As You Like It”
“Twelfth Night”
“The Comedy of Errors”
“The Taming of the Shrew”
“The Merchant of Venice”
“Measure for Measure”
“All’s Well That Ends Well”
“The Merry Wives of Windsor”
“Love’s Labour’s Lost”
“The Two Gentlemen of Verona”
“The Tempest”

Histories:

24. “Henry IV, Part 1”

“Henry IV, Part 2”
“Henry V”
“Richard III”
“Richard II”
“Henry VI, Part 1”
“Henry VI, Part 2”
“Henry VI, Part 3”
“Henry VIII”

Romances (Late Plays):

33. “Pericles, Prince of Tyre”

“Cymbeline”
“The Winter’s Tale”
“The Two Noble Kinsmen” (collaboration with John Fletcher)

Problem Plays:

37. “Measure for Measure”

“Troilus and Cressida”
Collaborative Works:
39. “The Two Noble Kinsmen” (co-authored with John Fletcher)

When and how did William Shakespeare die

William Shakespeare is believed to have died on April 23, 1616. The exact cause of his death is not definitively known, as there are no extant contemporary records providing details about the circumstances of his death. Consequently, his cause of death remains a matter of speculation and debate among historians and scholars.

Some of the theories and possible causes of Shakespeare’s death include:

Fever: Some historical records suggest that Shakespeare may have died of a fever. This could have been caused by a variety of factors, such as infectious diseases like typhoid or malaria.

Drinking Water Contamination: Another theory suggests that contaminated drinking water, possibly due to unsanitary conditions, could have contributed to his death. This was a common issue in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Old Age: Shakespeare died at the age of 52, which was considered relatively old for the time. Natural causes associated with aging may have played a role in his death.

Other Theories: There have been other, less substantiated theories about his death, including the possibility of cancer, stroke, or other medical conditions.

It’s important to note that the lack of detailed historical records from that time makes it challenging to determine the exact cause of Shakespeare’s death with certainty. Regardless of the cause, William Shakespeare’s works and legacy continue to be celebrated, and his impact on literature and the English language remains enduring and influential.

Religion and the Religious Views of William Shakespeare

The religious beliefs of William Shakespeare have been a subject of debate, as he publicly adhered to the official state religion while his private views remain a mystery. This Part of the article delves into the religious aspects of Shakespeare’s life and explores the various opinions surrounding his faith.

Public Conformity

Shakespeare outwardly conformed to the official state religion, which was Protestantism at the time. He was a confirmed member of the Church of England. It was within this church that he got married, where his children were baptized, and where he found his final resting place after death. This public alignment with the Church of England is well-documented.

Debate Over Private Beliefs

Despite his public conformity, there is an ongoing debate among scholars about the private religious beliefs of Shakespeare. Some claim that members of Shakespeare’s family were Catholics. During Shakespeare’s lifetime, practicing Catholicism in England was illegal, which adds a layer of complexity to this discussion. Shakespeare’s mother, Mary Arden, was unquestionably born into a devout Catholic family.

The most compelling evidence supporting the notion of Shakespeare’s Catholic background comes from a document—an alleged Catholic statement of faith signed by his father, John Shakespeare. This document, discovered in 1757 in the rafters of his former house on Henley Street, provides substantial support for the Catholic argument. However, the document itself has been lost, leaving room for skepticism and debate about its authenticity.

In historical records, there is mention of John Shakespeare, William’s father, missing church services in 1591 “for fear of process for debt,” which was a common excuse used by Catholics at the time. Additionally, in 1606, William’s daughter Susanna’s name appeared on a list of individuals who had failed to attend Easter communion in Stratford, hinting at possible non-conformity.

Lack of Definitive Evidence

While there is evidence both for and against Shakespeare’s Catholicism, Protestantism, or even agnosticism, the truth remains elusive. The absence of definitive proof regarding his private religious beliefs keeps this aspect of Shakespeare’s life an enigma. The playwright’s works offer various perspectives on religion and belief, reflecting the complexities and diversity of his era.

Interesting facts about William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is a fascinating figure in history and literature, and there are many interesting facts and aspects of his life and work. Here are some intriguing facts about William Shakespeare:

Mysterious Early Life: Much of Shakespeare’s early life is shrouded in mystery. We have limited information about his upbringing and education, which has led to various theories and speculations about his life.

Versatile Vocabulary: Shakespeare’s works are known for their rich and diverse vocabulary. He is credited with coining or popularizing thousands of words and phrases in the English language, many of which are still in use today.

The Lost Years: There is a period of several years in Shakespeare’s life (commonly referred to as the “Lost Years”) for which there are no extant records. The events and activities of his life during this time remain unknown.

Famous Penmanship: Shakespeare’s signature is one of the most valuable autographs in the world. Only six authenticated signatures exist, and they are highly sought after by collectors.

Globe Theatre: Shakespeare was a shareholder in the Globe Theatre, one of the most famous theaters of his time. The Globe was where many of his plays were first performed, and it was reconstructed in London in the late 20th century.

Not Just a Playwright: In addition to his work as a playwright, Shakespeare was an actor. He appeared in several of his own plays and those of other playwrights.

Prolific Playwright: Shakespeare is estimated to have written or co-written around 39 plays, which include a wide range of genres such as tragedies, comedies, histories, and romances.

Historical Plays: His history plays, such as “Richard III” and “Henry IV,” were often used to portray the political and social issues of his own time, making them both entertaining and politically relevant.

Sonnet Writer: Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets, which are considered some of the most beautiful and complex poems in the English language. They explore themes of love, beauty, and time.

Global Influence: Shakespeare’s works have been translated into every major living language and have been performed more often than those of any other playwright. His influence is truly global.

Bard of Avon: Shakespeare is often referred to as the “Bard of Avon” due to his birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Surviving Legacy: Shakespeare’s works continue to be performed, studied, and adapted in various forms, including films, theater productions, and literature. His influence on the arts is immeasurable.

Controversial Authorship Theories: There are numerous theories and controversies about the authorship of Shakespeare’s works, with some suggesting that others may have written some or all of his plays. However, the traditional attribution of his works to William Shakespeare of Stratford-upon-Avon remains widely accepted.

William Shakespeare’s Famous Quotes

William Shakespeare is renowned for his eloquent and timeless quotes. His works are filled with profound insights, wit, and poetic language. Here are some of his most famous quotes:

“To be or not to be, that is the question.” – From “Hamlet”

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” – From “As You Like It”

“The better part of Valour, is Discretion.” – From “Henry IV, Part 1”

“If music be the food of love, play on.” – From “Twelfth Night”

“The lady doth protest too much, methinks.” – From “Hamlet”

“Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once.” – From “Julius Caesar”

“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” – From “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

“All that glisters is not gold.” – From “The Merchant of Venice”

“We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life is rounded with a sleep.” – From “The Tempest”

“The better part of Valour, is Discretion.” – From “Henry IV, Part 1”

“Brevity is the soul of wit.” – From “Hamlet”

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” – From “Romeo and Juliet”

“The course of true love never did run smooth.” – From “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.” – From “Hamlet”

“If you prick us, do we not bleed? If you tickle us, do we not laugh? If you poison us, do we not die? And if you wrong us, shall we not revenge?” – From “The Merchant of Venice”

William Shakespeare’s books

William Shakespeare is primarily known for his plays and sonnets, not books in the modern sense. His works were written for the theater and were originally published as individual plays or as collections. However, you can find various editions of his complete works that include both his plays and sonnets. Some of these editions also include critical commentary and analysis. Here are a few notable collections and publications of Shakespeare’s works:

The First Folio (First Folio of Shakespeare): This is the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays. It was published in 1623, seven years after his death, by two of his fellow actors, John Heminges and Henry Condell. The First Folio contains 36 of Shakespeare’s plays, and it is considered one of the most important books in the history of English literature.

The Norton Shakespeare: This is a well-regarded edition of Shakespeare’s works that includes the complete plays and sonnets. It also offers extensive annotations and critical essays.

The Riverside Shakespeare: Another comprehensive edition, the Riverside Shakespeare, includes all of Shakespeare’s plays and poems, with detailed introductions and footnotes for each work.

The Arden Shakespeare: The Arden Shakespeare series is known for its scholarly and authoritative editions of Shakespeare’s plays. Each play is edited by a prominent Shakespearean scholar.

Penguin and Oxford World’s Classics: These publishers offer various editions of Shakespeare’s works with introductions, notes, and helpful commentary.

FAQs

1- Who was William Shakespeare?

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor who lived during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language.

2- What is William Shakespeare known for?

Shakespeare is known for his plays, which include famous works like “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” and “Macbeth.” He is also renowned for his sonnets and contributions to English literature.

3- Where was William Shakespeare born?

Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564.

4-How many plays did Shakespeare write?

Shakespeare is believed to have written or co-authored around 39 plays, which are categorized into tragedies, comedies, histories, and romances.

5-What are some famous Shakespearean quotes?

Shakespeare is famous for many quotes, such as “To be or not to be, that is the question” (from “Hamlet”) and “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players” (from “As You Like It”).

6-When did William Shakespeare die?

Shakespeare is believed to have died on April 23, 1616.

7-What is the “Globe Theatre”?

The Globe Theatre was a famous London theater where many of Shakespeare’s plays were performed. It was built in 1599.

8-Did Shakespeare write all of his plays?

While there is some debate and speculation, most scholars attribute Shakespeare’s plays to him, although he likely collaborated with other playwrights on some works.

9-What are Shakespeare’s sonnets?

Shakespeare wrote a collection of 154 sonnets, which are 14-line poems exploring themes of love, beauty, and time.

10-What is Shakespeare’s enduring legacy?

Shakespeare’s legacy includes his immense impact on literature, theater, and the English language. His works continue to be performed, studied, and celebrated worldwide, making him one of the most influential figures in the history of the arts.