Sha
kespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language, known for his plays and sonnets that have entertained and inspired generations. However, there are many lesser-known facts about the bard that may surprise you. Here are some cool Shakespeare facts that you may not know.
1. His plays were not meant to be read: Shakespeare wrote his plays to be performed, not to be read. This means that the language and structure of his plays are designed to be spoken aloud, and can sometimes be difficult to understand when read silently.
2. He invented many words and phrases: Shakespeare is credited with creating over 1,700 words and phrases that are still in use today. Some examples include "eyeball," "gossip," "bedroom," and "lackluster."
3. His plays were often performed at court: Shakespeare's plays were popular with royalty, and many of his performances were staged at court. He was even given the title of "King's Men" in 1603, after James I took the throne.
4. He was a businessman: Shakespeare was not only a writer, but also a shrewd businessman. He was a shareholder in the Globe Theatre, and made a fortune from his plays.
5. He used alliteration and wordplay: Shakespeare was a master of wordplay, using alliteration and puns to create memorable lines. For example, in Romeo and Juliet, he writes: "O brawling love, O loving hate, / O any thing of nothing first create!"
6. He was a bit of a rebel: Shakespeare's plays often tackled controversial subjects, and he was not afraid to poke fun at authority. In Henry IV, he even portrayed the king as a bumbling fool.
7. He may have written under a pseudonym: There is some debate about whether Shakespeare actually wrote all of the plays that are attributed to him. Some scholars believe that he may have used a pseudonym, or that other writers may have collaborated on his works.
8. He was a family man: Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway at the age of 18, and they had three children together. Although he spent much of his career in London, he maintained close ties to his family in Stratford.
9. He influenced many other writers: Shakespeare's works had a profound influence on English literature, and many other writers have been inspired by his plays and sonnets. Some examples include Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Oscar Wilde.
10 He died on his birthday: Shakespeare passed away on April 23, 1616, which was also his 52nd birthday. To this day, April 23 is celebrated as World Book Day in his honor. In conclusion, Shakespeare's legacy continues to be felt to this day, and his plays are still as popular as ever. Whether you're a fan of his works or just curious about the man behind the myth, there is always something new and fascinating to discover about this literary giant.