15 Unbelievable Facts About Shakespeare

Introduction:

Shakespeare is a name that resonates across centuries, a literary genius whose works have stood the test of time and continue to captivate audiences around the world. Known for his plays, sonnets, and poems, William Shakespeare’s influence on the English language and storytelling is unparalleled. In this article, we explore 15 unbelievable facts about the bard himself, shedding light on the man behind the masterpieces.

Fact 1: Early Life

Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564, William Shakespeare was the third child of John Shakespeare and Mary Arden. His exact date of birth remains a mystery, but historical records show that he was baptized on April 26, which is why his birthday is traditionally celebrated on April 23.

Fact 2: Education

Shakespeare attended the King Edward VI Grammar School in his hometown, where he would have studied Latin and Greek classics. Despite not attending university, his extensive knowledge of literature and history is evident in his writings.

Fact 3: Family Life

Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway when he was 18, and she was 26. They had three children together: Susanna, and twins Hamnet and Judith. Tragically, Hamnet died at the age of 11, a loss that some believe inspired Shakespeare’s later works.

Fact 4: The Lost Years

Between 1585 and 1592, there is a gap in Shakespeare’s life known as the “Lost Years.” Speculation abounds about where he was during this time, with theories ranging from working as a schoolmaster to traveling as an actor.

Fact 5: The Globe Theatre

Shakespeare was a shareholder in the Globe Theatre, one of London’s most famous playhouses. The theatre opened in 1599 and became the home of many of Shakespeare’s greatest works, including “Romeo and Juliet” and “Hamlet.”

Fact 6: Pseudonyms

Shakespeare often used pseudonyms when writing his plays and poems. Some of the names attributed to him include “William Shake-speare” and “W. Shakespeare,” adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding his identity.

Fact 7: The First Folio

After his death in 1616, Shakespeare’s friends and colleagues compiled his works into a collection known as the First Folio. This publication preserved many of his plays for future generations and solidified his reputation as a literary giant.

Fact 8: Influences

Shakespeare drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including history, mythology, and literature. His ability to blend these influences into original stories is a testament to his creativity and storytelling prowess.

Fact 9: Lost Plays

While Shakespeare is famous for his 37 plays, there are believed to be several more that have been lost to time. Works like “Love’s Labor’s Won” and “Cardenio” are just a few examples of plays that are no longer extant.

Fact 10: Linguistic Legacy

Shakespeare is credited with coining hundreds of words and phrases that are still in use today. From “bump” to “swagger,” his linguistic contributions have had a lasting impact on the English language.

Fact 11: Supernatural Beliefs

Shakespeare’s plays often explore themes of the supernatural, reflecting the belief systems of his time. Ghosts, witches, and magical beings populate his works, adding an air of mystery and intrigue.

Fact 12: Literary Rivalry

Shakespeare’s contemporary rival was Christopher Marlowe, another renowned playwright of the Elizabethan era. Their rivalry is said to have fueled Shakespeare’s creativity and led to some of his most celebrated works.

Fact 13: Controversies

Over the centuries, Shakespeare’s authorship has been the subject of numerous controversies. Some scholars believe that he did not write all of the works attributed to him, leading to debates about the true identity of the bard.

Fact 14: Global Fame

Shakespeare’s works have been translated into countless languages and performed in countries around the world. His universal themes of love, betrayal, and ambition resonate with audiences of all cultures and continue to inspire generations of artists.

Fact 15: Legacy

William Shakespeare’s legacy is unparalleled in the world of literature. His enduring influence on storytelling, language, and culture ensures that his name will be remembered for centuries to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 15 unbelievable facts about Shakespeare offer a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of history’s greatest writers. From his mysterious early years to his lasting impact on the English language, Shakespeare’s story is one of intrigue, inspiration, and enduring creativity. As we continue to study and celebrate his works, we honor the genius of a man whose words have stood the test of time.