William Shakespeare, born on April 23, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, is celebrated as the greatest writer in the English language and a towering figure in world literature. Over the course of his career, he produced an extraordinary body of work, including 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. His writings explore universal themes such as love, ambition, betrayal, fate, and the human condition, making them relevant across centuries and cultures.

Shakespeare’s plays are commonly grouped into three genres: tragedies, comedies, and histories. His tragedies, such as Hamlet, Macbeth, and Othello, delve into the darker aspects of human emotion and consequence. His comedies, including A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Twelfth Night, are known for their wit, mistaken identities, and happy endings. His historical plays like Henry V and Richard III reflect on the nature of power and leadership. In addition to his literary genius, Shakespeare was also a skilled actor and a shareholder in the Globe Theatre in London, where many of his plays were performed.

Shakespeare's influence on the English language is profound. He coined more than 1,700 words and many common expressions still used today. His works have been translated into over 100 languages and remain a staple of theater and education worldwide. Often referred to as the “Bard of Avon,” William Shakespeare passed away on April 23, 1616, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape literature, drama, and language to this day.