Shakespeare has been a subject of fascination for centuries. His plays and poems are studied in schools and universities around the world and his impact on English literature is immense. Shakespeare's life has also been an intensely studied subject, as much of what is known about the life is based on records that were preserved during and after his lifetime. This essay will examine the various records of Shakespeare's life, from his family background to his time as an actor, playwright, and poet.

Shakespeare came from a middle-class family in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England. His father was John Shakespeare, a glove-maker, and his mother was Mary Arden, who was of higher social standing than his father. Despite being born into a poor family, William was able to attend the local grammar school due to his father's social standing. From a young age, he showed an aptitude for words, and was exposed to the works of writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer, Edmund Spenser, and Christopher Marlowe, who likely had an influence on his writing.

Shakespeare was also an actor and playwright, as evidenced by his own words in the preface to the Sonnets. He gained prominence as a playwright in London in the 1590s with works such as "Romeo and Juliet" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream". By 1599, he was the principal playwright for the Globe Theatre, and continued to perform his works there until 1610. During this period, he wrote some of his most popular works, including "Othello", "Macbeth", and "Hamlet".

Shakespeare's works were composed in both English and Latin, and many scholars believe that he drew on his knowledge of these languages when writing his plays. He often used imagery, allusions, and puns to give his work greater depth and meaning. It is also believed that he incorporated stories and themes from Greek and Roman mythology, as well as topics from contemporary philosophy, into his works.

Shakespeare's influence can be seen in the works of other writers, such as John Milton and Thomas Hardy, as well as in modern films, television shows, operas, and musicals. His works have been translated into dozens of languages and have become part of the English speaking culture to the present day.

In conclusion, Shakespeare's life and works have had a lasting impact on literature and culture. His works have resonated with readers for centuries, and his influence continues to this day. His family background, education, and career have served as a basis for further study into the life and works of William Shakespeare.