Humanities Classics Quick Read Series - Quick Read of Greek and Roman Myths

Author: Zhang Shuheng et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: William Shakespeare (1564–1616) was a representative writer of the European Renaissance. He was born into a wealthy merchant family in Stratford-upon-Avon, a town on the River Avon in central England. As a child, famous theater troupes from London would come to Stratford for annual tours, sparking Shakespeare's interest in drama. He attended the local grammar school, where he was exposed to the works of ancient Roman writers. Later, due to his family's bankruptcy, he dropped out of school to make a living. Around 1585, Shakespeare moved to London. There is little known about his early years in London, but it is said that he worked as a stable hand in a theater, a cleaner in the theater, a prompter backstage, and a temporary actor on stage, among other jobs. The hardships of life broadened his horizons and deepened his understanding of society. In 1590, Shakespeare began his career in drama. With his diligence, hard work, and extraordinary talent, he gradually gained recognition in the theater world. As his performances and creations became successful, Shakespeare's income increased, allowing him to purchase property in his hometown and become a shareholder in a theater.