William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564–1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, he moved to London where he became an actor and co-owner of the Lord Chamberlain's Men — later known as the King's Men — one of the leading theatre companies of the era. Shakespeare wrote around 38 plays, 154 sonnets, and two narrative poems. His best-known works include Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Othello, and King Lear. His plays have been translated into every major language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright in history. In 1599, he became one of the founders of the Globe Theatre in London. Shakespeare is also credited with coining over 1,700 words and phrases that remain in everyday use today.