William Shakespeare, often hailed as the greatest writer in the English language, was born in April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. He was the third of eight children born to John Shakespeare, a glove maker and local official, and Mary Arden, of notable heritage. Shakespeare likely attended the local grammar school, where he developed a strong foundation in Latin and classical literature. At 18, he married Anne Hathaway, with whom he had three children. By the early 1590s, he had moved to London, becoming an actor, playwright, and a key member of the Lord Chamberlain's Men.Shakespeare's enduring fame is built on a remarkable body of work comprising 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and narrative poems. His plays, categorized into tragedies, comedies, and histories, showcase his mastery of language and deep understanding of human nature. Iconic tragedies like Hamlet, Macbeth, and King Lear explore themes of ambition, betrayal, and morality. Comedies such as A Midsummer Night's Dream and Twelfth Night offer humor and insights into love and identity, while histories like Henry V and Richard III reflect on power and leadership. Around 1613, Shakespeare retired to Stratford, where he lived until his death on April 23, 1616, traditionally thought to be his birthday. His works have been translated into every major language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright. Shakespeare's profound influence on literature, language, and culture endures, cementing his legacy as one of history's most significant writers. His works continue to inspire, educate, and entertain audiences worldwide.

The Portable ShakespeareIntroduction
Twelfth Night, or, What You Will
The Tragical History of Hamlet Prince of Denmark
Macbeth
The Tempest

Selections from the Other Plays
The Taming of the Shrew
Love's Labor's Lost
A Midsummer Night's Dream
The Merchant of Venice
Much Ado About Nothing
As You Like It
The History of Troilus and Cressida
Measure for Measure
The Winter's Tale
The Third Part of Henry the Sixth
The Tragedy of King Richard the Third
The Tragedy of King Richard the Second
The First Part of King Henry the Fourth
The Second Part of King Henry the Fourth
The Life of King Henry the Fifth
The Life of King Henry the Eighth
Romeo and Juliet
The Tragedy of Julius Caesar
The Tragedy of Othello the Moor of Venice
King Lear
Antony and Cleopatra

Selections from the Sonnets
Glossary