short essay about william shakespeare

Essay on William Shakespeare

500 words essay on william shakespeare.

William Shakespeare was certainly a very famous writer. The man is credited with an unbelievable thirty-eight plays, two narrative poems, several other poems and a whopping one hundred fifty-four sonnets. So let us take a peek inside the life of this genius with this essay on William Shakespeare.

                                                                                                                               Essay On William Shakespeare

Early Life of William Shakespeare

Shakespeare is the world’s pre-eminent dramatist and according to many experts is the greatest writer in the English language. Furthermore, he is also called England’s National Poet and also has the nickname of the Bard of Avon. Such a worthy reputation is due to his top-notch unmatchable writing skills.

William Shakespeare was born to a successful businessman in Stratford-upon-Avon on 23rd April in the year 1564. Shakespeare’s mother was the daughter of a landlord and came from a well-to-do family. About the age of seven, William Shakespeare began attending the Stratford Grammar School.

The teachers at Stratford were strict in nature and the school timings were long. One can say that William Shakespeare’s use of nature in his writings was due to the influence of the fields and woods surrounding the Stratford Grammar School on him.

Warwickshire was an interesting place to live, especially for those who were writers. Furthermore, the river Avon ran down through the town and because of this Shakespeare later got the title ‘Bard of Avon’. At the age of eighteen, William Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, a woman who in age was eight years older than him.

Illustrious Career of William Shakespeare

After his education, William Shakespeare became engaged in theatrical life in London. Furthermore, it was from here that his career likely took off. Moreover, by the year 1592, the popularity of William Shakespeare had grown to be very much.

Shakespeare became a member of one of the famous theatre companies in the city. Moreover, this company was ‘the Lord Chamberlain’s Men’. Also, the theatre companies during that era were commercial organizations that were dependent upon the audience who came to watch the plays.

From the year 1594, Shakespeare became the leading member of the acting group and remained that for almost the entire rest of his career. By the year 1594, the production of at least six plays had taken place by William Shakespeare.

Evidence shows that Shakespeare became a member of a well-known travelling theatre group. After joining this theatre, Shakespeare did plays in the presence of many dignitaries in various places.

Shakespeare, throughout his life, came up with some outstanding pieces of English literature , involving memorable timeless characters with human qualities. Furthermore, the human qualities and struggles of Shakespeare’s characters are such that one can relate with them even today. Shakespeare retired from his acting profession in 1613 and became completely devoted to writing many excellent plays.

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 Conclusion of the Essay on William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is, without a doubt, one of the greatest writers of all times. Furthermore, his excellence in story writing, narrative building, and character development is of the highest order. Individuals of such a high calibre appear once in a century or are even rarer than that.

FAQs For Essay on William Shakespeare

Question 1: Why is William Shakespeare so famous?

Answer 1:  William Shakespeare’s story writing skills are of an extremely high-quality. Furthermore, his works are characterized by outstanding narrative building around the topics of jealousy, mystery, love, magic, death, murder, life, revenge, and grief. That is why William Shakespeare is so famous.

Question 2: What are some of the most famous works of William Shakespeare?

Answer 2: Some of the most famous works of William Shakespeare are as follows:

• Romeo and Juliet
• The Merchant of Venice
• Much Ado About Nothing

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Short Essay on William Shakespeare [100, 200, 400 Words] With PDF

William Shakespeare was one of the most eminent and probably the most famous poet of English Literature. His works have made him immortal. In this lesson today, you will learn how to write an essay on the greatest poet: William Shakespeare.

Short Essay on William Shakespeare in 100 Words

William Shakespeare is by far the best-known literary figure in the history of English literature. He is principally known for his dramas and sonnets that have enriched British literature by folds. As the contemporary of Kyd and Marlow, Shakespeare has innovated the classical theatrical stances and defined them according to his contemporary audience.

He has written several comedies, tragedies, and tragicomedies in his literary career. Some of his famous plays include Twelfth Night, Hamlet, Othello, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, and others. His sonnets are quite famous and are dedicated to two personalities- the Earl of Southampton and the dark lady. It is said that the great poet died on 23 April 1616.

Short Essay on William Shakespeare in 200 Words

‘’Bard of Avon’’ William Shakespeare is the master playwright and poet of Renaissance England. The perfect blending of a playwright and the poet makes his genius so captivating. His career spans over twenty-four years where he has gifted his audience and readers a bounty of productions. Shakespeare has re-defined the theatre and its heroes and heroines. His career has four distinct sections that mark out his prolific capacity.

In the beginning, he has composed history plays like Henry VI plays, Richard III and Richard II, Comedy of Errors, and Love’s Labour Lost. The second phase contains all his comedies like The Taming of the Shrew, The Merry Wives of Windsor, As You Like It, Twelfth Night. The third phase is that of tragedies that sees Macbeth, Hamlet, King Lear, Othello, and Julius Ceaser. The final stage is of lesser-known plays like Winter’s Tale and The Tempest.

The sonnets of Shakespeare are lyrical poems that evoke sense and sensibilities in the readers. His sonnets are divided into a binary section- the first 126 sonnets are addressed to Earl of Southampton, while the rest 127-152 are for the dark lady. Both the identities of these two figures are mysteries, yet the most beautiful poems of Shakespeare are composed over them. He even dedicates his last two sonnets to Cupid.

Short Essay on William Shakespeare in 400 Words

Little is known about William Shakespeare, one of the greatest names in the British canon of dramas and poems. His biography does not much reveal about his childhood or early occupation. Yet among his contemporaries, Shakespeare is by far the best literary personality of all times and centuries. He was said to be born in 1564 at the Stratford-upon-Avon of United Kingdom. Within this span of twenty-four years of a literary career, he has gifted the British and European canon with his enormous creative prospects that from time immemorial has been the object of criticisms and researches.

The literary career of Shakespeare is roughly divided into four segments. 

FIRST PHASE- It includes the history plays of Shakespeare, where he experiments with several aspects of tragedy, comedy, and history. To this period belong his Henry VI plays, Comedy of Errors, Love’ Labour Lost, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Two Gentlemen of Verona, and the only tragedy, Titus Andronicus.

SECOND PHASE- This includes his comedies and is one of the best moments of the playwright. To this belongs his greatest comedies and historical plays- The Taming of the Shrew, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Twelfth Night, Merchant of Venice, As you Like It, and King John as the first historical play. 

THIRD PHASE- This stage is called the stage of tragedies, where Shakespeare has given world-class tragedies including Othello, Hamlet, Macbeth, King Lear, Julius Ceaser, and others. 

FOURTH PHASE- The last phase of the playwright’s career has some lesser-known plays like The Winter’s Tale and The Tempest. It is also in this stage that his sonnets are published in 1609. 

Shakespeare’s sonnets are a significant aspect of his career as within the 14lines structure, he asserts a completely different style of address. Here it is not a beautiful lady, but a man and a woman of much darker complexion. The man is considered as Earl of Southampton (1-126) and the woman as Dark lady (127-152), although their identities are still a mystery. An unconventional method of sonnet writing is apparent here. He even dedicates two of the sonnets to Cupid. His poetic style is simple, sensuous, and passionate and is perfectly carried out in his poems. Shakespeare’s literary talent is profound and incomprehensible, yet a specimen of imperishable beauty. 

Though we don’t have much information about his life, many researchers say that the greatest poet of all time William Shakespeare died on the 23rd of April, 1616 in the same city he was born.

In this lesson above, I have tried to picture the life of William Shakespeare within very limited words. Hopefully, after going through this session, you have understood how you can actually concise the story of such a vast life within your recommended words. If you still have any doubts, please let me know through some quick comments. If you want to read more such essays and other kinds of English compositions, keep browsing our website. 

Kindly join us on Telegram to get the latest updates on our upcoming sessions. Thank you for being with us. Have a great day. 

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Essay on William Shakespeare - 100, 200, 500 Words

William Shakespeare is one of the first names that come to our mind when we talk about English Literature. He was a famous writer of his time. His remarkable work in the field of literature left an everlasting impression on this world for forever. He wrote about 38 plays, 154 sonnets, 2 narrative poems and many other poems which are recognized as some of the greatest works in the history of English literature. He was an incredible writer whose works were so extraordinary that some had raised many speculations on the true origin of his works many years back. Here are a few sample essays on William Shakespeare.

100 Words Essay on William Shakespeare

A legendary writer and actor William Shakespeare was born on the 23April in 1564 to Mary Shakespeare and John Shakespeare. He was known for his works in the field of English Literature. He produced many plays, sonnets, poems, and verses. He was also known as a well-known stage actor. He completed his schooling at Stratford Grammar School.

He wrote almost every genre of work. Some of his famous comedy genre works are: The Comedy of Errors, The Taming of the Shrew and The Two Gentlemen of Verona. Romeo Juliet, Julius Caesar, and Titus Andronicus are some of his famous tragic genre works. Richard II, Richard III, and Henry V are some of his historic genre plays. This shows that William Shakespeare was a multi-talented man.

William Shakespeare died on the 23 April, in the year 1616. Shakespeare died at the age of 52 in his hometown Warwickshire, England. He died physically but his existence through his extraordinary work will live forever in this world.

200 Words Essay on William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is one of the renowned names of English playwrights. He was a multi-talented man who was a writer, poet and actor. He produced about one hundred and fifty-four sonnets, two narrative poems, thirty-eight plays and a few verses. He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon to a good family with good financial status on 23 April, 1564.

He started his career as an actor and then he started writing. He produced most of his works from 1589 to 1613. He wrote many famous plays like Romeo and Juliet, Julius Caesar , etc. In the year 1608, Shakespeare wrote some of his finest works of the tragic genre like Othello, Macbeth, and King Lear. These tragic genre works were some of the last works which he wrote in his last few years of life. Julius Caesar and Romeo and Juliet are some of his most famous plays which are played in schools and colleges on various occasions. He wrote vast, voluminous, unique and every different genre of plays.

Several of Shakespeare’s works have been translated into other languages. Several movies and plays are also played in his plays. His works are loved by everyone of every age group. He is one of the most precious playwrights of the times. He died in his hometown at the age of 52 on 23 of April, 1616.

500 Words Essay on William Shakespeare

One of the world's most famous playwrights and a dramatist William Shakespeare was known for his works in English literature. He was also known as Bard of Avon (England’s national poet) for his outstanding and incredible writing skills. He wrote amazing and unbelievable 38 plays, 154 sonnets, 2 narrative poems and a few verses in the English language.

Early life Of Shakespeare

He was born at Stratford-upon-Avon on 23 April in the year 1564. His father was a successful businessman and his mother was a landowner’s daughter. He started his schooling at the age of 7 at Stratford Grammar School. School timing was long and the teachers there were strict. His school was surrounded by woods and fields, which could have influenced his writing skills which are full of nature. Avon is a river which flows in his town, and he was nicknamed Bard of Avon on this basis. He married an eight years older woman Anne Hathaway at the age of 18. They had three kids Susanna, and the twins Judith and Hamnet.

Shakespeare’s Inspirational Career

After completing his education, he moved to London where he started his career as an actor. He became a very famous actor by 1592. It was here that his career started taking shape. He was a member of “The Lord Chamberlain’s Men” one of the very famous theatre companies in the city. By the year 1594, he had produced about six plays which were performed in the company. He played in many of the plays as an actor at various places.

He produced many famous plays like Romeo and Juliet, Merchant of Venice, Hamlet, Much Ado About Nothing, Henry V and many more. Julius Caesar was a tragic play he wrote in the last few years of his life. It was all about a bad omen that the king saw and it came true. In this play, the king is killed by his loyal and trustworthy people and friends. Romeo and Juliet are one of his other plays which were known for the beauty of the love Romeo and Juliet have for each other. All his plays give some morals to learn. His works were full of nature and he had written in almost every kind of genre. His works are known for unforgettable characters full of human qualities. In 1613, he took a break from acting and fully devoted himself to writing. And on 23 April, 1616 he died leaving this world with his incredible and irreplaceable works.

Shakespeare was a legend of English literature. His fantastic writing skills can take away anyone’s heart. His works are known for being character-centric, narrative-building, natural, realistic, and fictional and he has excellent writing skills. There is a saying that “People die but their words won’t” and it is true William Shakespeare, one of the greatest writers of all time will live forever through his words of writing and his works will always inspire and motivate us to do incredible things in our lives.

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Essay Curve

Essay on Shakespeare – Samples, 10 Lines to 1500 Words

Essay on Shakespeare: William Shakespeare is considered one of the greatest playwrights in history, with his works still being performed and studied over 400 years after his death. In this essay, we will explore the enduring relevance and impact of Shakespeare’s plays, delving into themes such as love, power, and betrayal that continue to resonate with audiences today. Through an analysis of his most famous works, we will uncover the timeless truths and universal truths that make Shakespeare a literary icon.

Table of Contents

Shakespeare Essay Writing Tips

1. Start by choosing a specific topic related to Shakespeare’s writing that interests you. This could be a particular play, theme, character, or aspect of his writing style.

2. Research the topic thoroughly to gather information and develop a clear understanding of the subject matter. Utilize reputable sources such as academic journals, books, and online databases to ensure the accuracy of your information.

3. Create an outline for your essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide background information on Shakespeare and the topic you will be discussing, as well as a thesis statement that outlines the main argument of your essay.

4. In the body paragraphs, present your analysis and evidence to support your thesis statement. Use quotes from Shakespeare’s works to illustrate your points and provide textual evidence for your arguments.

5. Consider the historical and cultural context of Shakespeare’s writing when analyzing his works. This can provide valuable insights into the themes, characters, and language used in his plays.

6. Pay attention to Shakespeare’s use of language, imagery, and symbolism in his writing. Discuss how these literary devices contribute to the overall meaning and impact of his works.

7. Be sure to address any counterarguments or alternative interpretations of the text in your essay. This will demonstrate a thorough understanding of the material and strengthen your argument.

8. Conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis. You can also offer some final thoughts or reflections on the significance of Shakespeare’s writing and its enduring impact on literature and culture.

9. Proofread and revise your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness. Check for grammar and spelling errors, as well as the overall structure and flow of your writing.

10. Finally, cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style (such as MLA or APA) to give credit to the authors and avoid plagiarism. Make sure to include a works cited page or bibliography at the end of your essay.

Essay on Shakespeare in 10 Lines – Examples

1. William Shakespeare was an English playwright and poet who is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language. 2. He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1564 and died in 1616. 3. Shakespeare wrote a total of 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. 4. His plays are divided into three main categories: tragedies, comedies, and histories. 5. Some of his most famous works include “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” 6. Shakespeare’s plays are known for their complex characters, intricate plots, and timeless themes. 7. He also coined many phrases and words that are still used in the English language today. 8. Shakespeare’s works have been translated into numerous languages and are performed all over the world. 9. His influence on literature, theater, and culture is immeasurable. 10. Shakespeare’s legacy continues to endure, with his works being studied, adapted, and celebrated to this day.

Sample Essay on Shakespeare in 100-180 Words

William Shakespeare is considered one of the greatest playwrights and poets in history. His works, such as “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” and “Macbeth,” are still performed and studied around the world today. Shakespeare’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotion and the human experience in his writing is unparalleled. His plays are known for their rich language, intricate plots, and timeless themes.

Shakespeare’s influence on literature, theater, and the English language cannot be overstated. He introduced thousands of words and phrases into the English lexicon, many of which are still in use today. His plays continue to be adapted into films, television shows, and modern interpretations, demonstrating their enduring relevance and appeal.

In conclusion, Shakespeare’s impact on the world of literature and culture is immeasurable. His works continue to be celebrated and revered, making him a true literary icon.

Short Essay on Shakespeare in 200-500 Words

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights and poets in history. His works have had a profound impact on literature, theater, and the English language as a whole. Born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Shakespeare’s exact date of birth is unknown but is traditionally celebrated on April 23rd. He wrote a total of 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several other poems during his lifetime.

Shakespeare’s plays are known for their complex characters, intricate plots, and timeless themes. His works cover a wide range of genres, including tragedies like “Hamlet” and “Macbeth,” comedies like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Twelfth Night,” and histories like “Henry V” and “Richard III.” His ability to capture the human experience and explore universal themes such as love, jealousy, power, and betrayal has ensured that his works remain relevant and popular to this day.

One of the reasons Shakespeare’s works have endured for over 400 years is their rich language and poetic imagery. His mastery of the English language is evident in his use of iambic pentameter, metaphor, and wordplay. Many of his phrases and expressions have become ingrained in the English lexicon, such as “to be or not to be,” “all the world’s a stage,” and “the course of true love never did run smooth.” Shakespeare’s influence on the English language is immeasurable, and his works continue to be studied and performed around the world.

In addition to his literary achievements, Shakespeare was also a successful businessman. He was a shareholder in the Globe Theatre, where many of his plays were performed, and he made a substantial income from his writing. Despite his success, Shakespeare’s personal life remains shrouded in mystery. There is little known about his early years, his education, or his relationships with his family. His marriage to Anne Hathaway and the birth of his three children are well-documented, but much of his life remains a mystery.

Shakespeare’s legacy as a playwright and poet is unparalleled. His works have been translated into every major language, adapted into countless films and television shows, and performed on stages around the world. His influence can be seen in the works of countless writers, artists, and filmmakers who have been inspired by his timeless themes and unforgettable characters. Shakespeare’s impact on literature and culture is undeniable, and his works will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.

Essay on Shakespeare in 1000-1500 Words

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in history. His works have had a profound impact on literature, theater, and even the English language itself. Shakespeare’s plays are still performed around the world today, more than 400 years after they were written. In this essay, we will explore the life and works of William Shakespeare, and examine why his legacy endures to this day.

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England in 1564. He was the third of eight children, and his father was a successful glove-maker and alderman in the town. Shakespeare likely attended the local grammar school, where he would have received a classical education in Latin and Greek. At the age of 18, he married Anne Hathaway, a woman eight years his senior. They had three children together, but little is known about Shakespeare’s personal life during this time.

By the early 1590s, Shakespeare had moved to London and begun his career as a playwright and actor. He quickly gained recognition for his talent, and by 1594 he was a founding member of the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a popular theater company. Over the next two decades, Shakespeare wrote some of his most famous plays, including “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” “Othello,” and “King Lear.” His plays were performed at the Globe Theatre, a famous theater in London that he co-owned.

Shakespeare’s plays are known for their complex characters, intricate plots, and rich language. He was a master of the English language, and his works are filled with memorable quotes and phrases that are still used today. For example, phrases like “to be or not to be” and “all the world’s a stage” are instantly recognizable as lines from Shakespeare’s plays. His ability to capture the human experience in his writing is what has made his works so enduring.

One of the reasons why Shakespeare’s plays continue to be performed and studied today is their universal themes. Despite being written over 400 years ago, Shakespeare’s plays still resonate with audiences because they explore timeless topics like love, jealousy, power, and betrayal. His characters are complex and flawed, making them relatable to people of all backgrounds and cultures. Whether it’s the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet or the political intrigue of “Macbeth,” Shakespeare’s plays have something for everyone.

In addition to his plays, Shakespeare also wrote a number of sonnets, which are 14-line poems that follow a specific rhyme scheme. His sonnets are considered some of the greatest in the English language, and they explore themes of love, beauty, and mortality. Shakespeare’s sonnets are still studied and admired for their lyrical beauty and emotional depth.

Despite his success during his lifetime, Shakespeare’s legacy was not fully appreciated until after his death in 1616. His plays were collected and published in a folio edition in 1623, known as the First Folio. This collection included 36 of his plays, many of which had never been published before. The First Folio helped to preserve Shakespeare’s works for future generations, and it solidified his reputation as one of the greatest playwrights in history.

In the centuries since his death, Shakespeare’s influence has only grown. His plays have been translated into every major language, and they are performed in theaters around the world. Shakespeare’s works have also been adapted into countless films, television shows, and novels, further cementing his place in popular culture. His impact on the English language is also undeniable, as he is credited with coining hundreds of words and phrases that are still in use today.

In conclusion, William Shakespeare’s legacy as a playwright and poet is unparalleled. His works continue to be studied, performed, and admired by audiences of all ages. Shakespeare’s ability to capture the human experience in his writing, his universal themes, and his mastery of the English language are just a few of the reasons why his works have stood the test of time. As long as there are theaters and readers, Shakespeare’s plays will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.

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Essay on William Shakespeare | William Shakespeare Essay for Students and Children in English

February 12, 2024 by Prasanna

Essay on William Shakespeare:  The Bard of Avon who produced some of the most impressive works of English literature is the genius, William Shakespeare. The complete works of Shakespeare being so voluminous and extraordinary has also raised several speculations regarding the true origin of these works many years ago.

It is quite hard to swallow the idea of one individual producing about 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two narrative poems and a few other verses which are all almost universally recognized as some of the greatest works in the history of literature. Some of the famous plays under Shakespeare’s authorship are Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Julius Caesar, The Comedy of Errors, etc.

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long and Short Essays on William Shakespeare for Students and Kids in English

We are providing students with a sample of long essay on 500 words and a short essay of 150 words on the topic William Shakespeare in English for reference.

Long Essay on William Shakespeare 500 Words in English

Long Essay on William Shakespeare is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Shakespeare is the world’s pre-eminent dramatists and is till date regarded as the greatest writer in the English language. It is because of the brilliance of Shakespeare’s writing skill that he was often called England’s National Poet and was also nicknamed as the Bard of Avon.

He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon to a successful businessman on 23rd April in the year 1564. Shakespeare’s mother was also from a well-to-do family for she was a landowner’s daughter. About the age of seven, William Shakespeare, along with other boys of his social class, started attending the Stratford Grammar School.

The teachers at Stratford were strict disciplinarians, and the school was conducted round the year for nine hours a day. William Shakespeare’s evident love for nature in his writings could be said to have been influenced by the fields and woods surrounding the Stratford Grammar School throughout his childhood.

Warwickshire was an exciting place to live in as the writer then also engaged in hunting and trap small game activities. It was because of the river Avon that ran down through the town was what endowed Shakespeare with the title ‘Bard of Avon’. It was at the age of eighteen when Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, who was eight years older than him. They had three children named Susanna, and the twins Judith and Hamnet.

William Shakespeare’s career likely took off with his theatrical life in London, and by the year 1592, he is believed to have become very well known. By this time, Shakespeare had joined one of the famous theatre companies in the city. The theatre companies then used to consist of a permanent cast of actors who week after week presented plays. The acting companies in London that William Shakespeare belonged to was called ‘the Lord Chamberlain’s Men’ which scholars say to be one of the most popular acting companies of that time. These companies were commercial organizations which depended upon the admission from the audience who came to watch the play.

From the year 1594, Shakespeare was the leading member of the acting group for almost the entire rest of his career. By the year 1594, William Shakespeare had already produced at least six plays. In Shakespeare’s lifetime, two monarchs had ruled over England. The first monarch being Henry VIII and then later succeeding him Queen Elizabeth began her rule. Shakespeare’s work had caught both the monarchs’ attention, and this is what made him a well-known playwright.

It is evident that Shakespeare was a member of a well-known travelling theatre group and did plays in many places and the presence of many dignitaries. Shakespeare became one of the owners of the popular and prosperous Globe Theatre in the year 1599. By the year 1609, he also became the part-owner of the Black Friars Theatre.

Shakespeare, throughout his life, created brilliant pieces of English literate containing timeless characters with universal human qualities and struggles that readers find relatable to date. It was around 1613 when Shakespeare retired from this acting profession and settled in Stratford where he went on writing many excellent plays.

Short Essay on William Shakespeare 150 Words in English

Short Essay on William Shakespeare is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Arguably one of the most famous writers of all time is the English playwright, poet and actor named William Shakespeare. In his lifetime Shakespeare had written about a hundred and fifty-four sonnets, a few verses, two long narrative poems, and thirty-eight plays.

It is observed that Shakespeare produced most of his work between the years 1589 to 1613. Some of his best literary works are considered to be the early plays of the comedies and histories genre. Until about the year 1608, Shakespeare mainly wrote tragedies like Othello, Macbeth, and King Lear, which are considered to be some of his finest works.

In the last few years of his life, Shakespeare mainly wrote tragicomedies and also collaborated with other English playwrights. Shakespeare’s works of literature have been translated into almost every major languages of the world, his work has also been adapted into movies, and his plays are performed more often than any other playwright’s.

10 Lines on William Shakespeare in English

• A legendary name in English literature is William Shakespeare.
• He was born to Mary Shakespeare and John Shakespeare on the 23rd of April in the year 1564.
• Since there is documentary proof of Shakespeare being baptized on 26th April of 1564, therefore scholars estimate him to be born three days prior as per the traditions of baptism at that time.
• If the date of birth of Shakespeare under the Julian calendar is compared to today’s Gregorian calendar them, it will fall on 3rd May.
• Three plays of comedy genre written by Shakespeare are The Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Comedy of Errors, and The Taming of the Shrew.
• Three plays written by William Shakespeare in the tragedy category are Julius Caesar, Titus Andronicus, Romeo and Juliet.
• Three plays by Shakespeare under the history genre are Richard II, Richard III, and Henry V.
• William Shakespeare was a multi-talented individual who accomplished writing several kinds of plays, sonnets, short stories, verses, and he even was a well-known stage actor.
• William Shakespeare died on the 23rd day of April, in the year 1616.
• He died at the age of fifty-two in his hometown Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England.

FAQ’s on William Shakespeare Essay

Question 1. Was Shakespeare born to a poor family?

Answer:  No, on the contrary, he was born in a very well-to-do family.

Question 2.  Which genre of plays did Shakespeare write in his last few years?

Answer: Tragicomedies.

Question 3.  Where did William Shakespeare die?

Answer: Stratford.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Writers — William Shakespeare

Essays on William Shakespeare

What makes a good william shakespeare essay topic.

When it comes to crafting an exceptional essay on the works of William Shakespeare, the choice of topic is paramount. The right topic can breathe life into your essay, making it captivating, unique, and unforgettable. Here are some innovative tips to help you brainstorm and select an essay topic that will mesmerize your readers:

- Research and Immerse Yourself: Begin by immersing yourself in the vast repertoire of William Shakespeare's works. Dive into his plays, poems, and sonnets. This deep exploration will provide you with invaluable insights into his themes, characters, and writing style.

- Personal Passion: Opt for a topic that ignites a genuine spark of interest within you. When you are truly passionate about the subject matter, it will shine through in your writing, captivating your readers and making your essay more compelling.

- Unveiling the Unexplored: Seek out uncharted territory and lesser-known aspects of Shakespeare's works. Instead of treading the well-worn path of common themes or characters, venture into the hidden gems that lie within his literature.

- Contemporary Connections: Explore the relevance of Shakespeare's works in today's society and connect them to modern-day issues. Examining the timeless themes and their impact on the present can render your essay thought-provoking and engaging.

- Characters and Relationships Under the Microscope: Shakespeare's characters are multifaceted and intricate. Choose a topic that allows you to analyze their motivations, relationships, or character development within his plays.

- Comparative Analysis: Engage in a comparative exploration of Shakespeare's works alongside other literary pieces, historical events, or even contemporary movies or plays. This fresh perspective will make your essay stand out from the crowd.

- Social and Cultural Context: Delve into the social and cultural milieu that shaped Shakespeare's plays. Discuss how his works were influenced by the Elizabethan era and how they mirror the society of that time.

- Unveiling Symbolism and Imagery: Shakespeare's works are a treasure trove of symbolism and vivid imagery. Select a topic that allows you to analyze and interpret these literary devices, offering profound insights into the text.

- Controversial Contemplations: Shakespeare fearlessly explored contentious themes such as power, love, and morality. Choose a topic that tackles these provocative issues, sparking a lively debate among your readers.

- Unconventional Interpretations: Present a fresh and unconventional interpretation of a particular play, scene, or character. Challenge conventional ideas and encourage critical thinking with your unique perspective.

Remember, a remarkable Shakespeare essay topic should be captivating, original, and thought-provoking. By considering these recommendations, you will be able to select a topic that will enrapture your readers and showcase your exceptional analytical skills.

Essay Topic Ideas for William Shakespeare

Prepare to be dazzled by these outstanding essay topics on William Shakespeare:

• The Empowerment of Women in Shakespeare's Tragedies
• Fate and Its Grip on Romeo and Juliet
• The Fine Line Between Madness and Sanity in Hamlet
• Love's Intricacies and Deception in Much Ado About Nothing
• Unraveling the Allure of Power and Ambition in Macbeth
• Exploring the Dark Depths of Evil in Othello
• Shakespeare's Brave Confrontation of Racism in The Merchant of Venice
• The Mighty Influence of Language and Wordplay in A Midsummer Night's Dream
• Revenge and Justice Collide in Titus Andronicus
• The Greek Mythology Odyssey within Shakespeare's Plays
• The Symbolic Tapestry of Nature in King Lear
• Gender Roles and Identity in Twelfth Night
• Time's Elusive Spell in The Tempest
• The Supernatural's Sinister Dance in Macbeth
• The Illusion of Appearance versus the Reality of Truth in Measure for Measure
• The Complexities of Love's Dominion in Antony and Cleopatra
• The Intricate Weaving of Politics in Julius Caesar
• Jealousy's Venomous Touch in Othello
• The Struggle between Duty and Desire in Hamlet
• A Profound Exploration of Human Nature in Troilus and Cressida

Provocative Questions for Your William Shakespeare Essay

Prepare to embark on an intellectual journey with these thought-provoking essay questions on William Shakespeare:

• How does Shakespeare challenge traditional gender roles in his plays?
• What is the significance of the supernatural elements in Macbeth?
• How does Shakespeare explore the theme of power and its corrupting influence in his tragedies?
• Analyze the portrayal of love and relationships in Shakespeare's comedies.
• To what extent does fate play a role in Romeo and Juliet, and are the characters responsible for their own destinies?
• Discuss the concept of madness and its impact on the characters in Hamlet.
• How does Shakespeare employ symbolism and imagery to convey his themes in The Tempest?
• Analyze the role of loyalty and betrayal in Julius Caesar.
• How does Othello's race affect the outcome of the play?
• Discuss the portrayal of revenge in Shakespeare's plays.

Creative William Shakespeare Essay Prompts

Ignite your creativity with these captivating essay prompts on William Shakespeare:

• Imagine you are a director staging a modern adaptation of one of Shakespeare's plays. How would you interpret the setting, costumes, and overall production to make it relevant to a contemporary audience?
• Write a heartfelt letter from one of Shakespeare's characters to another, expressing their deepest desires, fears, or regrets.
• Create a powerful monologue from the perspective of a minor character in any of Shakespeare's plays, unveiling their untold story or hidden emotions.
• Write a riveting dialogue between Shakespeare and a modern-day playwright, discussing the enduring appeal and relevance of his works.
• Imagine you are a literary critic tasked with analyzing a previously undiscovered Shakespearean sonnet. Interpret its meaning and discuss its significance within the context of his other works.

William Shakespeare Essay FAQ

Q: How should I begin my essay on William Shakespeare?

A: Commence with a captivating introduction that sets the stage for your essay and introduces your thesis statement. You can start with a compelling quote, an intriguing fact, or a thought-provoking question.

Q: Can I choose a lesser-known play by Shakespeare as my essay topic?

A: Absolutely! Exploring lesser-known plays can provide a fresh perspective, allowing you to delve into unexplored themes and characters. Just ensure that you provide enough context and background information for your readers.

Q: Should I include direct quotes from Shakespeare's works in my essay?

A: Including quotes can enhance your analysis and provide evidence to support your arguments. However, make sure to seamlessly integrate and analyze the quotes, rather than using them as mere filler.

Q: Can I incorporate modern examples or references in my essay on Shakespeare?

A: Yes, incorporating modern examples or references can help readers connect with the themes and relevance of Shakespeare's works. Just ensure that the examples are relevant and enhance your analysis, rather than overshadowing it.

Q: How can I make my Shakespeare essay stand out from others?

A: To make your essay shine, choose a unique and thought-provoking topic, offer fresh interpretations, and employ engaging language and writing style. Support your arguments with evidence and provide a well-structured analysis.

Remember, writing a Shakespeare essay is an opportunity to showcase your critical thinking and analytical skills. Embark on a thrilling journey through the world of Shakespeare and let your creativity illuminate your writing!

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare: Fate and Destiny

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The Role of Fate in "Romeo & Juliet" by William Shakespeare

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April 1564, Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom - April 23, 1616, Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom

Playwright, Poet, Actor

English Renaissance

Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Macbeth, Othello, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Julius Caesar, The Tempest, Much Ado About Nothing,Twelfth Night, Macbeth, etc.

William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in history, possessed a unique and influential style of writing. His works demonstrate a mastery of language, poetic devices, and dramatic techniques that continue to captivate audiences centuries later. Shakespeare's writing style can be characterized by several distinctive features. Firstly, his use of language is rich and vibrant. He employed a vast vocabulary and crafted elaborate sentences, often employing complex wordplay and puns to create layers of meaning. Shakespeare's writing is renowned for its poetic beauty, rhythmic verse, and memorable lines that have become ingrained in the English language. Secondly, Shakespeare excelled in character development. His characters are multidimensional, with complex emotions and motivations. Through their soliloquies and dialogues, he explores the depths of human nature, delving into themes of love, jealousy, ambition, and morality. Each character's speech and mannerisms reflect their unique personality, contributing to the depth and realism of his plays. Lastly, Shakespeare's dramatic structure and storytelling techniques are unparalleled. He skillfully weaves together intricate plots, incorporating elements of comedy, tragedy, romance, and history. His plays feature dramatic tension, unexpected twists, and powerful climaxes that keep audiences engaged and emotionally invested.

One of Shakespeare's major contributions was his ability to delve into the depths of human emotions and the complexities of the human condition. Through his plays, he explored themes such as love, jealousy, ambition, revenge, and moral dilemmas, offering profound insights into the human psyche. His characters, like Hamlet, Macbeth, Juliet, and Othello, are iconic and have become archetypes in literature. Shakespeare's language and wordplay revolutionized English literature. He introduced new words, phrases, and expressions that have become an integral part of the English lexicon. His plays are a testament to his mastery of language, employing poetic techniques such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and iambic pentameter to create rhythm, beauty, and depth in his writing. Moreover, Shakespeare's plays transcended the boundaries of time and place, showcasing universal themes and resonating with audiences across cultures and generations. His works continue to be performed and adapted in various forms, including stage productions, films, and literary adaptations, further solidifying his contribution to the world of literature.

Film Adaptations: Many of Shakespeare's plays have been adapted into films, bringing his stories to life on the silver screen. Notable examples include Franco Zeffirelli's "Romeo and Juliet" (1968), Kenneth Branagh's "Henry V" (1989), and Baz Luhrmann's modernized version of "Romeo + Juliet" (1996). TV Series and Episodes: Shakespeare's works have been featured in TV series and episodes, either through direct adaptations or by incorporating his themes and characters. For instance, the popular TV show "The Simpsons" has parodied Shakespeare in episodes like "A Midsummer's Nice Dream" and "Tales from the Public Domain." Shakespearean-Inspired Films: Some films draw inspiration from Shakespeare's works without being direct adaptations. Examples include "Shakespeare in Love" (1998), which explores the fictionalized romance between Shakespeare and a noblewoman, and "10 Things I Hate About You" (1999), a modern-day adaptation of "The Taming of the Shrew." Literary References: Shakespeare is often referenced in literature, showcasing his enduring influence. For instance, Aldous Huxley's dystopian novel "Brave New World" features characters who quote Shakespeare, and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale" includes a clandestine resistance group called "Mayday," derived from "May Day" in Shakespeare's "The Tempest."

1. Shakespeare is known for writing 39 plays, including tragedies like "Hamlet," comedies like "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and histories like "Henry V." 2. Shakespeare is credited with introducing over 1,700 words to the English language, including popular terms such as "eyeball," "fashionable," and "lonely." 3. Shakespeare's works have been translated into more than 80 languages, making him one of the most widely translated playwrights in history. 4. Shakespeare's plays continue to be performed and studied worldwide, with an estimated 17,000 performances of his works every year. 5. Despite his literary fame, little is known about Shakespeare's personal life. There are gaps and uncertainties surrounding his birthdate, education, and even the authorship of his works. 6. The Globe Theatre: Shakespeare's plays were performed at the famous Globe Theatre in London, which he co-owned. The reconstructed Globe Theatre stands in London today and offers modern audiences a glimpse into the world of Elizabethan theatre. 7. In addition to his plays, Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets, which are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and exploration of themes such as love, time, and mortality.

William Shakespeare is an essential topic for essay writing due to his immense significance in the world of literature and his enduring influence on various aspects of human culture. Exploring Shakespeare's works provides a rich opportunity to delve into themes of love, tragedy, power, and human nature. His plays and sonnets continue to captivate readers and audiences with their universal themes and timeless relevance. Studying Shakespeare allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the English language itself, as he contributed numerous words and phrases that are still in use today. Additionally, his innovative use of language, poetic techniques, and complex characterizations showcase his unparalleled mastery as a playwright. Furthermore, Shakespeare's impact extends beyond literature. His works have been adapted into numerous films, theater productions, and other art forms, making him a cultural icon. His plays also provide a valuable lens through which to analyze historical and social contexts, as they reflect the values, beliefs, and conflicts of the Elizabethan era.

"All that glitters is not gold." "By the pricking of my thumbs, Something wicked this way comes. Open, locks, Whoever knocks!" In William Shakespeare's Hamlet, "to be, or not to be, that is the question." In the 21st century, "to code, or not to code, that is the challenge.

1. Shakespeare, W., Shakespeare, W., & Kaplan, M. L. (2002). The merchant of Venice (pp. 25-120). Palgrave Macmillan US. (https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-137-07784-4_2) 2. Shakespeare, W. (2019). The tempest. In One-Hour Shakespeare (pp. 137-194). Routledge. (https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429262647-9/tempest-william-shakespeare) 3. Johnson, S. (2020). The Preface to The Plays of William Shakespeare (1765). In Samuel Johnson (pp. 423-462). Yale University Press. (https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.12987/9780300258004-040/html?lang=de) 4. Denvir, J. (1986). William Shakespeare and the Jurisprudence of Comedy. Stan. L. Rev., 39, 825. (https://heinonline.org/HOL/LandingPage?handle=hein.journals/stflr39&div=38&id=&page=) 5. Demmen, J. (2020). Issues and challenges in compiling a corpus of early modern English plays for comparison with those of William Shakespeare. ICAME Journal, 44(1), 37-68. (https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/icame-2020-0002) 6. Liu, X., Xu, A., Liu, Z., Guo, Y., & Akkiraju, R. (2019, May). Cognitive learning: How to become william shakespeare. In Extended Abstracts of the 2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (pp. 1-6). (https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/3290607.3312844) 7. Xu, W., Ritter, A., Dolan, W. B., Grishman, R., & Cherry, C. (2012, December). Paraphrasing for style. In Proceedings of COLING 2012 (pp. 2899-2914). (https://aclanthology.org/C12-1177.pdf) 8. Craig, H. (2012). George Chapman, John Davies of Hereford, William Shakespeare, and" A Lover's Complaint". Shakespeare Quarterly, 63(2), 147-174. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/41679745) 9. Zhao, Y., & Zobel, J. (2007, January). Searching with style: Authorship attribution in classic literature. In Proceedings of the thirtieth Australasian conference on Computer science-Volume 62 (pp. 59-68). (https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=3973ff27eb173412ce532c8684b950f4cd9b0dc8)

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Biography Online

Short Biography William Shakespeare

Short bio of William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon on 23rd April 1564.

His father William was a successful local businessman, and his mother Mary was the daughter of a landowner. Relatively prosperous, it is likely the family paid for Williams education, although there is no evidence he attended university.

In 1582 William, aged only 18, married an older woman named Anne Hathaway. They had three children, Susanna, Hamnet and Juliet. Their only son Hamnet died aged just 11.

Due to some well-timed investments, Shakespeare was able to secure a firm financial background, leaving time for writing and acting. The best of these investments was buying some real estate near Stratford in 1605, which soon doubled in value.

It seemed Shakespeare didn’t mind being absent from his family – he only returned home during Lent when all the theatres were closed. It is thought that during the 1590s he wrote the majority of his sonnets. This was a time of prolific writing and his plays developed a good deal of interest and controversy. His early plays were mainly comedies (e.g. Much Ado about Nothing , A Midsummer’s Night Dream ) and histories (e.g. Henry V )

By the early Seventeenth Century, Shakespeare had begun to write plays in the genre of tragedy. These plays, such as Hamlet , Othello and King Lear , often hinge on some fatal error or flaw in the lead character and provide fascinating insights into the darker aspects of human nature. These later plays are considered Shakespeare’s finest achievements.

When writing an introduction to Shakespeare’s First Folio of published plays in 1623, Johnson wrote of Shakespeare:

“not of an age, but for all time”

Shakespeare the Poet

William Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets mostly in the 1590s. These short poems, deal with issues such as lost love. His sonnets have an enduring appeal due to his formidable skill with language and words.

“Let me not to the marriage of true minds Admit impediments. Love is not love Which alters when it alteration finds, Or bends with the remover to remove:”

– Sonnet CXVI

The Plays of Shakespeare

The plays of Shakespeare have been studied more than any other writing in the English language and have been translated into numerous languages. He was rare as a play-write for excelling in tragedies, comedies and histories. He deftly combined popular entertainment with an extraordinary poetic capacity for expression which is almost mantric in quality.

 “This above all: to thine ownself be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man. Farewell: my blessing season this in thee!”

– Lord Polonius, Hamlet Act I, Scene 3

During his lifetime, Shakespeare was not without controversy, but he also received lavish praise for his plays which were very popular and commercially successful.

His plays have retained an enduring appeal throughout history and the world. Some of his most popular plays include:

• Twelfth Night
• Romeo and Juliet

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players: they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts…”

Death of Shakespeare

Shakespeare died in 1616; it is not clear how he died, and numerous suggestions have been put forward. John Ward, the local vicar of Holy Trinity Church in Stratford (where Shakespeare is buried), writes in a diary account that:

“Shakespeare, Drayton, and Ben Jonson had a merry meeting and it seems drank too hard, for Shakespeare died of a fever there contracted.”

In 1616, there was an outbreak of typhus (“The new fever”) which may have been the cause. The average life expectancy of someone born in London, England in the Sixteenth Century was about 35 years old, Shakespeare died age 52.

Was Shakespeare really Shakespeare?

Some academics, known as the “Oxfords,” claim that Shakespeare never actually wrote any plays. They contend Shakespeare was actually just a successful businessman, and for authorship suggest names such as Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford .  Arguments have also been made for Francis Bacon . The argument that Shakespeare was actually the Earl of Oxford relies on circumstantial evidence and similarities in his writing style and relationships between his life and the play of Shakespeare. 

However, there is no hard evidence tying the Earl of Oxford to the theatre or writing the scripts.  By contrast, there is evidence of William Shakespeare working in theatres and he received a variety of criticism from people such as Ben Johnson and Robert Greene. Also, the Earl of Oxford died in 1604, and it is generally agreed there were 12 plays published after this date. (Oxfords contend these plays were finished by other writers.)

It is also hard to believe the vain Earl of Oxford (who killed one of his own servants) would write such amazing scripts and then be happy with anonymity. Also, to maintain anonymity, it would also require the co-operation of numerous family members and other figures in the theatre world. The theory of other writers to Shakespeare only emerged centuries after the publishing of the First Folio.

Shakespeare’s Epitaph

Good friend for Jesus sake forbeare To digg the dust encloased heare Blessed by y man y spares hes stones And curst be he y moves my bones

– More interesting facts on Shakespeare

Quotes on Shakespeare

“Shakespeare, no mere child of nature; no automaton of genius; no passive vehicle of inspiration possessed by the spirit, not possessing it; first studied patiently, meditated deeply, understood minutely, till knowledge became habitual and intuitive, wedded itself to his habitual feelings, and at length gave birth to that stupendous power by which he stands alone, with no equal or second in his own class; to that power which seated him on one of the two glorysmitten summits of the poetic mountain, with Milton’s his compeer, not rival.”

– Samuel Taylor Coleridge , Biographia Literaria (1817)

Citation: Pettinger, Tejvan . “Biography of William Shakespeare”, Oxford, www.biographyonline.net , 18th May 2006. Last updated 1 March 2019.

Popular quotes of Shakespeare

“This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.”

– Polonius, giving Laertes a pep talk. ( Hamlet )

“To be, or not to be: that is the question Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them. To die: to sleep;”

– Hamlet

“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in our philosophy.”

– Hamlet (to Horatio on seeing a ghost)

“We are such stuff As dreams are made on, and our little life Is rounded with a sleep.”

– The Tempest (Prospero)

The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings.”

Julius Caesar (Cassius to Brutus)

“Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, And then is heard no more. It is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.”

– Macbeth (on learning of the death of Queen)

“There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.”

— Hamlet in Hamlet

“Self-love, my liege, is not so vile a sin, as self-neglecting.”

—Dauphin in Henry V

“Our doubts are traitors, And make us lose the good we oft might win, By fearing to attempt.”

—Lucio in Measure for Measure

The Oxford Shakespeare: The Complete Works 2nd Edition

The Oxford Shakespeare: The Complete Works 2nd Edition at Amazon

Shakespeare: The Biography

Shakespeare: The Biography at Amazon

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