William Shakespeare (baptized April 26, 1564-died April 23, 1616) was an English poet and playwright, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers ever in the English language. Although a popular writer in his lifetime, his works lapsed in acclaim after his death. Through the 18th century, his reputation recovered and flourished; by 1900, he had become known simply as “the Bard,” and playwright George Bernard Shaw even coined the word “Bardolatry” in reference to Shakespeare worship.

Shakespeare’s plays and poems are still read and performed around the world, in every major language. He is credited with contributing hundreds of new words and popular expressions to English, and his works are a standard component of English literature courses and exams from high school onward.