William Shakespeare's influence on drama and literature--and even the English language itself--is unprecedented. Surprisingly, the renowned playwright's life is full of mystery. This biography presents what is known about Shakespeare as well as the current theories about the unknown, even touching on the controversies about the authorship of some of his plays. Readers will also become familiar with 16th-century England, the monarchs Shakespeare entertained, and what being an actor was like at that time. Doubtless, the introduction to his masterpieces will inspire young thespians to read or attend one of the dramatist's great works.