William Shakespeare

  • Apr 23, 1564

    Birth of William Shakespeare.

    William Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1564.
  • 1582

    When William married.

    In 1852 William got married to Anne Hathaway.
  • The great plague.

    Theatre closures due to outbreaks of the plague occurred, such as the one in 1593, leading Shakespeare to begin writing his sonnets.
  • first play

    Theatre closures due to outbreaks of the plague occurred, such as the one in 1593, leading Shakespeare to begin writing his sonnets.
  • Becomes a founding member of the Lord Chamberlain's Men.

    Shakespeare joined this prominent acting company, for which he wrote and acted. Under King James I, the company was later renamed the King's Men. Being a shareholder in the company made Shakespeare a wealthy man.
  • Construction of the Globe Theatre.

    The Lord Chamberlain's Men built the Globe Theatre on the banks of the River Thames. It was here that many of Shakespeare's most famous plays were performed. The original theatre burned down in 1613.
  • Sonnets published

    Shakespeare's collection of 154 sonnets, exploring themes of love, beauty, and time, were published in 1609.
  • Retirement to stratford

    Shakespeare retired to his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon around 1611.
  • Death and legacy.

    Shakespeare died in his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon on April 23, 1616, the same date as his traditional birthday. Seven years later, two of his fellow actors compiled 36 of his plays into the First Folio, preserving his work for future generations.
  • An enduring leagacy

    An enduring leagacy

    Today, Shakespeare's plays are still performed globally, with Hamlet being one of the longest and most frequently performed tragedies.