William Shakespeare (1564–1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language. Often called “The Bard of Avon,” he wrote 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. His works, including “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” explore themes of love, power, jealousy, and betrayal. Shakespeare’s profound influence on literature, theatre, and the English language is unparalleled.