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Shakespeare Biography: His Life and Times

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is considered to be the greatest writer in the history of English literature. His genius produced the world's most-often produced and published plays , including Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, The Merchant of Venice, King Lear, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and more than 32 others.
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The Globe Theatre

Featured Essay

Shakespeare's Tragedy

The dramatic form of classical tragedy derives from the tragic plays of ancient Athens, which depicted the downfall of a hero or famous character of Greek legend. The hero would struggle against overwhelming fate, and his defeat would be so noble that he wins the moral victory over the forces that destroy him. A tragedy evoked pity and terror in the audience; it was a catharsis, or washing clean of the soul, which left the spectator trembling but purified.
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Shakespeare: The Manga Edition

Graphically rich manga adaptations are a fun, contemporary way to enjoy classic text! Go

Shakespeare on the Double!

Read Shakespeare's original text side-by-side with a modern English translation. Go

Shakespeare Tools & Resources
Shakespeare Quotes
Shakespeare Quotes
Check out the most familiar quotes from Shakespeare's plays.
Shakespeare Glossaries
Shakespeare Glossaries
View a list of glossaries providing definitions for unfamiliar words and phrases in Shakespeare's works.
Shakespeare Films
Films Based on Shakespeare's Works
View a list of the most noteworthy Shakespeare films.
Shakespeare Essays
Essays on Shakespeare's Works
Check out a sampling of essays from CliffsNotes.com that illuminate Shakespeare's works.
Ask Cliff about Shakespeare

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What are the renaissance features/characteristics in Hamlet?

The word renaissance literally means "rebirth." In the context of the English Renaissance, this rebirth refers to a renewal of learning . . . More

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