William Shakespeare (1564–1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and one of the most influential dramatists in history. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, he wrote approximately 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several poems. His works include renowned tragedies such as "Hamlet," "Othello," "King Lear," and "Macbeth," comedies like "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Much Ado About Nothing," and "Twelfth Night," as well as historical plays such as "Henry V" and "Richard III."
Shakespeare's writing is celebrated for its rich language, complex characters, and exploration of themes such as love, ambition, betrayal, and the human condition. His plays were performed at the Globe Theatre and other venues, and they remain widely studied and performed today. Shakespeare's impact on literature and the English language is profound, with many phrases and words he coined still in use. He is often referred to as the "Bard of Avon."