William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor born in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1564.

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor born in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1564. He is widely regarded as the most influential writer in the English language.

What it is

Shakespeare’s surviving works include about 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several narrative poems. His plays are commonly grouped as comedies, histories, and tragedies, though classification varies. Best-known tragedies include Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth.

Why it matters

Shakespeare’s plays are performed more often than those of any other playwright and remain central to English-language literature and theatre. In Canada, he is a foundational figure studied in schools, universities, and regularly staged in theatres across the country.

Key details

Shakespeare was born in 1564 and died on 23 April 1616, both in Stratford-upon-Avon. He married Anne Hathaway, and they had three children: Susanna, Hamnet, and Judith. His exact birth date is not recorded, but 23 April is the traditional date used.