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William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (April, 1564 -- baptised April 26, 1564 -- April 23, 1616) was an English poet and playwright who has a reputation as the greatest of all writers in the English language and in Western literature, as well as one of the world's pre-eminent dramatists.

Shakespeare's literary achievement is not confined to his mastery of the poetic and dramatic form; his ability to capture and convey the most profound aspects of human nature is considered by many scholars to be unequalled, due to his understanding of the range and depth of human emotions. A colossal figure in world literature, Shakespeare's legacy and influence continues to be felt in all parts of the globe. He has been translated into every major living language, and his plays are continually performed all around the world. Shakespeare is among the very few playwrights who have excelled in both tragedy and comedy.

Shakespeare wrote his works between 1588 and 1616, although the exact dates and chronology of the plays attributed to him are often uncertain. His prolific output is especially impressive in light of the fact that he lived only 52 years.

Shakespeare's influence on the English-speaking world shows in the widespread use of quotations from Shakespearean plays, the titles of works based on Shakespearean phrases, and the many adaptations of his works.