| Considering that Shakespeare is generally regarded to be
the greatest writer in the English language, it is surprising that
relatively little is known of his life. Undoubtedly the political,
social and cultural conditions in England at the time played a role in
Shakespeare's career, so they help us to complete the picture.
By modern standards Shakespeare did not live long at all - he died at the age of 52. Before you look at details of Shakespeare's life note down all you know about world events in the late 1400s and 1500s. What cultural movements were important? What discoveries did Europeans make? What political events were important for England ? Do you know anything about social conditions at the time? |
Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon |