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1564
Birth
William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in April 1564. His exact birth date is unknown, but he was baptized on April 26. He grew up in a middle-class family, and his father, John Shakespeare, was a glove maker and town official. -
1582
Marriage
At 18, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, who was 26 years old and already pregnant. Their marriage was unusual because of their age difference. They had a quick wedding, possibly because of Anne’s pregnancy. -
Children
In 1583, their first daughter, Susanna, was born. Two years later, in 1585, they had twins, Hamnet and Judith. Sadly, Hamnet died in 1596 at the age of 11, possibly from the plague. -
'The Lost Years'
Very little is known about Shakespeare’s life from 1587 to 1592. Some believe he worked as a teacher, an actor, or even traveled abroad. By 1592, he was active in the London theater scene. -
First Mention as a Playwright
The playwright Robert Greene criticized Shakespeare in a pamphlet, calling him an "upstart crow." This shows that by this time, Shakespeare was already gaining fame as a playwright. -
Joined the Lord Chamberlain’s Men
Shakespeare became an actor and playwright for this theater company. They performed in front of Queen Elizabeth I. His early plays, such as Titus Andronicus and Henry VI, were successful. -
Famous Plays
From 1595 to 1599, Shakespeare wrote some of his most well-known plays, including Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Richard III. His reputation grew, and his plays became popular in London. -
The Globe Theatre Opened
Shakespeare and his company built the Globe Theatre, where many of his plays were performed. The theater was famous for its open-air stage and large audiences. -
Great Tragedies
From 1601 to 1608, Shakespeare wrote Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth. These tragedies explored deep human emotions like ambition, jealousy, and revenge. -
Shakespeare’s Sonnets Published
A collection of 154 sonnets was published, showcasing Shakespeare’s talent as a poet. These sonnets explored themes of love, time, and beauty. -
Final Plays and Retirement
Shakespeare wrote his last plays, including The Tempest and The Winter’s Tale. Around 1613, he retired to Stratford-upon-Avon, where he lived a quieter life with his family. -
Death
Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616, at the age of 52. He was buried in Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon. His tombstone carries a famous inscription warning against moving his bones.