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William Shakespeare — Reading Comprehension

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This World History reading passage explores the life and legacy of William Shakespeare, England’s national poet and a central figure of the Renaissance. Students will learn about Shakespeare’s early life in Stratford-upon-Avon, his rise as a playwright in London, and his creation of famous works such as Romeo and Juliet and Hamlet. The passage highlights Shakespeare’s influence on the English language and theater, referencing primary sources like the First Folio and his Globe Theatre. Activities include vocabulary, comprehension, writing, a timeline, and graphic organizers to foster historical thinking. This resource is aligned with CA HSS 7.8 and CCSS RI.6-8, and includes both English and Spanish versions, as well as read aloud audio for accessibility.

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"William Shakespeare MET DP858186" by William Shakespeare / Charles William Sherborn / Wikimedia Commons

William Shakespeare was born in April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, a small market town in England. He is widely recognized as England’s national poet and the most influential playwright in world history. Shakespeare lived during the Renaissance, a period of cultural rebirth in Europe that celebrated art, literature, and new ideas. His writing helped shape the English language and inspired countless generations.

Shakespeare’s early life remains somewhat mysterious. Official records show he was baptized on April 26, 1564, and historians believe he was born a few days earlier. His father, John Shakespeare, was a glove maker and town official, while his mother, Mary Arden, came from a respected family. Shakespeare likely attended the local grammar school, where he studied Latin, literature, and rhetoric. In 1582, at age eighteen, he married Anne Hathaway. By the early 1590s, Shakespeare had moved to London, where he became active in the city’s vibrant theater scene.

Shakespeare joined a group of actors called the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, later known as the King’s Men. He wrote and performed plays at the Globe Theatre, a famous open-air theater on the banks of the River Thames. Between 1590 and 1613, Shakespeare wrote at least 37 plays and 154 sonnets, or fourteen-line poems. Notable works include tragedies like Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet, comedies such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and histories like Henry V. Shakespeare often explored themes like love, power, jealousy, and betrayal. For example, a primary source, the First Folio published in 1623, collected most of his plays and preserved them for future readers.

Shakespeare’s work had a lasting influence on language and theater. He introduced over 1,700 new words to English, including lonely and majestic. His plays were performed before both commoners and royalty, reflecting the social hierarchy of England. The Globe Theatre itself demonstrates how geography shaped culture—its location in London made it accessible to large, diverse audiences. Today, Shakespeare’s plays are studied and performed worldwide, showing the continuity of his impact across centuries and cultures.

Shakespeare died in 1616, but his legacy endures. His stories, characters, and creative language continue to shape literature, theater, and the way we communicate. By examining his life and works, we gain insight into the Renaissance and the development of modern society.

Interesting Fact: Shakespeare invented many common phrases we use today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold."

Shakespeare’s contributions connect to broader themes in world history, including the spread of new ideas during the Renaissance and the power of art to influence society.

Where was Shakespeare born?

Stratford-upon-AvonLondonOxfordParis

What year did Shakespeare die?

1616162315641599

Which theater was linked to Shakespeare?

Globe TheatreRose TheatreApollo TheatreRoyal Theatre

Why was the First Folio important?

It preserved his playsIt was his only playIt was his diaryIt closed the Globe

How did the Globe Theatre's location affect Shakespeare's work?

Brought large audiencesMade acting harderLimited travelWas far from London

What is a sonnet?

A 14-line poemA type of playA theaterA stage direction