William Shakespeare: The Bard of All Time
- Marcelo Serafim
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
1. Introduction
William Shakespeare is widely regarded as the greatest playwright in the English language and one of the most influential writers in history. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1564, he left behind a legacy of dramatic and poetic works that continue to captivate audiences more than 400 years after his death.
2. Early Life
Shakespeare was born into a middle-class family and received a solid education in grammar school, where he likely studied Latin and classical literature. Though not much is known about his early life, historians believe he married Anne Hathaway at age 18 and had three children.
3. The London Stage
By the early 1590s, Shakespeare had moved to London, where he began writing plays and poems. He became involved with the Globe Theatre, a company he partly owned. His plays quickly gained popularity, both with commoners and royalty, especially Queen Elizabeth I and later King James I.
4. A Versatile Writer
Shakespeare’s talent lay in his ability to write across multiple genres. He crafted tragedies like Hamlet, Macbeth, and Othello, comedies such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Twelfth Night, and historical plays like Henry V and Richard III. Each of his works displays a deep understanding of human nature and emotion.
5. Contributions to the English Language
Shakespeare is often credited with enriching the English language. He invented or popularized over 1,700 words and phrases still used today, such as “break the ice,” “wild-goose chase,” and “heart of gold.” His use of metaphor, wordplay, and poetic devices set a standard for literary excellence.
6. Poetic Works
In addition to his plays, Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets and several long narrative poems. His poetry explores themes like love, beauty, time, and mortality. These works showcase his mastery of rhythm and meter, especially the iambic pentameter, which became his signature poetic style.
7. The First Folio
After his death in 1616, two of his colleagues compiled and published his plays in a volume called The First Folio in 1623. Without this collection, many of his works might have been lost forever. It remains one of the most important publications in literary history.
8. Global Influence
Shakespeare’s work has been translated into every major language and performed more than any other playwright’s. His stories have inspired countless adaptations, from movies and operas to modern novels. His influence extends beyond literature into philosophy, psychology, and even politics.
9. Criticism and Mystery
Despite his fame, Shakespeare’s life and authorship have been the subject of debate. Some scholars question whether he wrote all the works attributed to him. Others examine the cultural and political context of his writing, which reveals the depth and complexity of his ideas. Some even claim he never existed.
10. Legacy
Shakespeare’s legacy is truly timeless. His ability to portray the complexities of love, power, ambition, jealousy, and betrayal makes his work eternally relevant. He didn’t just write for his own time—he wrote for all time, capturing the universal truths of the human condition.
Most Popular Plays
1. Hamlet
A tragic story of Prince Hamlet of Denmark, who seeks revenge against his uncle Claudius for murdering his father and taking the throne. The play explores themes of madness, betrayal, and revenge, and is famous for the line: "To be, or not to be—that is the question."
2. Macbeth
This tragedy tells the story of Macbeth, a Scottish general whose ambition drives him to murder the king and seize the crown. Guided by prophecy and pushed by his wife, Macbeth spirals into guilt, paranoia, and destruction.
3. Romeo and Juliet
A romantic tragedy about two young lovers from feuding families in Verona. Their passionate love leads to a series of tragic events, ending in their untimely deaths. It’s a powerful story about love, fate, and family conflict.
4. Othello
This play centers on Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, and his jealous subordinate Iago, who deceives him into believing his wife Desdemona has been unfaithful. It’s a powerful exploration of jealousy, manipulation, and racial prejudice.
Questions
Where was William Shakespeare born, and what do we know about his early education?
Which three genres did Shakespeare commonly write in?
Why is Shakespeare considered important to the English language?
What is The First Folio, and why is it significant?
What makes Shakespeare’s work relevant even today?
Vocabulary Section
Phrasal Verb of the Day: “Carry on”
Meaning: To continue doing something.
Examples:
Despite personal tragedies, Shakespeare carried on writing and producing plays.
His legacy carries on through modern adaptations and performances.
American Idiom: “Stand the test of time”
Meaning: To remain valuable or respected over a long period.
Example:Shakespeare’s works have truly stood the test of time, remaining relevant across centuries.
English Grammar Tip: Use of the Present Perfect vs. Simple Past
In biographies, the simple past is used for completed actions. The present perfect is used for things that started in the past and still affect the present.
Examples:
Simple past:
Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets.
He died in 1616.
Present perfect:
His work has influenced countless writers.
His plays have been performed all over the world.
Listening
Homework Proposal
Write a short essay (150–200 words) about your favorite Shakespeare play or sonnet. If you haven’t read one yet, research a summary of a play like Romeo and Juliet or Hamlet and write about what you think the story is trying to teach us.
✅ Requirements:
Use one phrasal verb (like carry on)
Use one idiom (like stand the test of time)
Use three vocabulary words from the list
Use both past simple and present perfect in your writing
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