Comprehensive Shakespeare Facts: Birth, Works, Theatre, and Language

When was William Shakespeare born?

April 23, 1564

When did William Shakespeare die?

April 23, 1616

How many plays did Shakespeare write?

At least 39 plays

What is one of Shakespeare's most famous tragedies?

Hamlet

What is the structure of a sonnet?

A poem of 14 lines, consisting of 3 quatrains and one rhyming couplet.

What is the purpose of the volta in a sonnet?

It serves as a significant turning point, usually at the beginning of the third quatrain.

What does 'iambic pentameter' refer to?

A type of metric line consisting of 10 syllables or five 'iambs', where each iamb has the second syllable stressed.

What was the Globe Theatre?

A large outdoor stage in London where many of Shakespeare's plays were performed.

What were the three sections of the Globe Theatre?

Groundlings (Pit), Galleries, and The Heavens.

What significant historical event occurred in 1588 during Shakespeare's lifetime?

England's victory over the Spanish Armada.

What era was England in during Shakespeare's life?

The Elizabethan Era.

What themes are commonly explored in Shakespeare's works?

Human nature, love, power, betrayal, and ambition.

What was the impact of the English Renaissance during Shakespeare's time?

It was a time of cultural and intellectual growth, with a rediscovery of classical works.

How many sonnets did Shakespeare write?

154 sonnets.

What is a characteristic of the Groundlings in the Globe Theatre?

They were poorer members who stood in the pit.

What is the significance of Shakespeare's contributions to the English language?

He added over 1,700 words to the dictionary and influenced literature and theatre.

What social issues were present in England during Shakespeare's lifetime?

Social inequity and social unrest.

What is a quatrain in the context of a sonnet?

A group of four lines that builds on a theme.

What is the typical rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnet?

ABABCDCDEFEFGG.

What does 'penta' mean in iambic pentameter?

It refers to five, indicating five metrical feet.

how many words did he add to the dictionary

1700