Notes on William Shakespeare Lecture

Introduction

• Exploration of Shakespeare's life in Stratford-upon-Avon
• Key locations: birthplace, childhood home, Holy Trinity Church

Early Life

• Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, baptized on April 26, 1564
• Possibly died on his birthday, April 23
• Holy Trinity Church: Oldest building in Stratford, significant changes during the Reformation
• Stratford during Shakespeare's birth: 2,000 people, market town, agricultural

The Plague and Shakespeare's Survival

• Frequent outbreaks of plague, including 1564, Shakespeare's birth year
• Nearly 200 deaths recorded, reflecting high infant mortality
• Shakespeare's family survived, others around them did not

Family Background

• Born to John Shakespeare (glove maker) and Mary Arden
• Family had lost two baby girls prior to William's birth
• John Shakespeare's rise from apprentice to mayor of Stratford
• Possible secret Roman Catholic, faced fines and debts

Education

• Attended King Edward VI School, received a classical education
• Curriculum included Latin, Greek, and classical authors like Ovid
• Education in oratory and rhetoric reflected in Shakespeare's works

Marriage and Children

• Married Anne Hathaway in 1582 at age 18
• Had three children: Susanna, Hamnet, and Judith
• Hamnet died young from the plague

Lost Years (1585-1592)

• No concrete evidence of Shakespeare's activities during this period
• Speculation includes teaching or joining traveling players

Rise to Fame

• Joined Queen's Men, inspired to write plays
• Participated in the burgeoning theatrical scene of London
• Early successes with plays like "Henry VI" and "Richard III"

The Globe Theatre

• Co-owner of the Globe Theatre, opened in 1599
• Hosted first performances of famous works: "Hamlet," "Macbeth," "Julius Caesar"
• Theatrical community flourished in London, with diverse audiences

Later Life and Career

• Elizabethan England: Intrigue, espionage, vibrant culture
• Shakespeare’s output slowed after the Globe burned down in 1613
• "The Tempest" likely his last solo work, seen as a retirement piece

Death and Legacy

• Died April 23, 1616; left behind a significant will for family and community
• First Folio published in 1623 by colleagues, preserving his works
• The impact of Shakespeare's language: coined phrases and words still used today

Influence on Arts

• Shakespeare's works continue to inspire literature, theater, music, and film
• Many common phrases in English stem from his writings
• His legacy remains strong, influencing countless aspects of culture and language

Conclusion

• Shakespeare's life and works showcase a profound impact on literature and the arts
• Remains an enduring figure in cultural history.