William Shakespeare was one of history's most influential writers who shaped literature and theater from 1564 to 1616. His life and works continue to impact culture and education worldwide.
Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Shakespeare came from a middle-class family where his father worked as a glove-maker and local official. His early education at the King's New School exposed him to classical literature and Latin, which later influenced his writing style. His William Shakespeare beruflicher werdegang (professional career) began in London's theater scene in the late 1580s, where he worked as an actor before becoming a playwright. By 1594, he was part-owner of the Lord Chamberlain's Men acting company, which later became the King's Men under King James I's patronage.
Shakespeare's personal life included his marriage to Anne Hathaway when he was 18, and together they had three children (William Shakespeare Kinder): Susanna and twins Hamnet and Judith. His William Shakespeare Familie (family) remained in Stratford while he worked in London, though he frequently visited and eventually retired there. His most celebrated works (William Shakespeare berühmteste Werke) include "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "A Midsummer Night's Dream." These plays explored themes of love, tragedy, power, and human nature. Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616 (Wann ist William Shakespeare gestorben), with the exact William Shakespeare Todesursache (cause of death) remaining unknown, though fever is commonly cited. His contemporary, Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, coincidentally died on the same date. Shakespeare's works remain central to education worldwide, including in Germany's Shakespeare Abitur NRW curriculum, where students analyze his plays for their Abi Klausur Shakespeare (Shakespeare graduation exams). His enduring legacy continues to influence literature, theater, and popular culture, with his plays being performed and adapted countless times across the globe.
