To Be or Not To Be…A Literary Genius

Image with heading "Shakespeare the Man-His Place in Literature" shows a portrait of him and his birthplace.

Image featured in April 14, 1916 Perth Amboy Evening News.

On this day, April 23rd 1616, one of the most famous playwrights in the world laid to rest in his birth place, Stratford-upon-Avon. Now it is the time to celebrate his legacy and contributions he made within the field of literature.

William Shakespeare was probably born in April 23rd, 1564 as the oldest surviving child of his family. His father was a leather maker, who rose through local offices in Stratford. Shakespeare, as any other student, went to grammar school until the age of 15. A few years after dropping out of school, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway in 1582 after already expecting their first child. In 1585, after having twins, Shakespeare moved to London to begin his acting career where he became famous in the theater world.

He later retired in the country at the ripe age of 47 and passed away a few years later.

Image with the heading "The Honoring of Shakespeare" shows his portrait and monuments dedicate to him.

This article featured in April 14, 1916 Perth Amboy Evening News, describes how different countries around the world are putting on Shakespeare’s plays to commemorate his life and accomplishments. In Germany, there is a season dedicated to Shakespeare where one can see all of his plays. In England, outdoor performances of “As You Like It” and “Mid-Summer’s Night Dream” are given to benefit wounded soldiers. There is also a celebration held in Stratford. Operas, performances, and lectures are given in Denmark, France, and Italy, and as far away as Japan.

(Contributed by Kristi Chanda)

Source:

Mcarafano. “Shakespeare’s Life.” Folger Shakespeare Library, 25 Feb. 2020, www.folger.edu/shakespeares-life.

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