Shakespeare's Life and Works

William Shakespeare, born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, is celebrated as the greatest English writer. He wrote 38 plays, 154 sonnets, and other works. Married to Anne Hathaway, he had three children. His career flourished in London as an actor and playwright. He retired to Stratford in 1613 and died in 1616. His works, including comedies, tragedies, and romances, remain influential and widely performed.

When was William Shakespeare born?

• April 26, 1564

• April 26, 1616

• April 23, 1564

• April 23, 1616

What is Shakespeare often referred to as?

• The Poet of England

• The Bard of Avon

• The Playwright of London

• The Dramatist of Stratford

How many plays did Shakespeare write?

• 28

• 58

• 38

• 48

Who did Shakespeare marry?

• Mary Arden

• Anne Hathaway

• Susanna Hall

• Judith Quiney

What was the name of the playing company Shakespeare was part of?

• The Queen's Men

• The King's Men

• The Lord Chamberlain's Men

• The Royal Players

At what age did Shakespeare retire?

• 49

• 52

• 58

• 55

What was the cause of Shakespeare's death speculated to be?

• Old age

• Plague

• Typhus

• Unknown illness

Which genre did Shakespeare focus on in his early career?

• Tragedies

• Comedies and Histories

• Tragicomedies

• Romances

Which of the following is NOT a tragedy by Shakespeare?

• Twelfth Night

• Hamlet

• Othello

• Macbeth

What type of plays did Shakespeare write in his last phase?

• Tragedies

• Tragicomedies

• Histories

• Comedies