Задание

Who was William Shakespeare?

William Shakespeare is one of the world's greatest writers. He wrote plays for the theatre. He wrote poetry too. Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, in England. Later he went to London, to be an actor. But he became famous for writing plays. His friends said he was the best writer of his time. Most people now say he was the best of all time.

Why is Shakespeare so famous?

Shakespeare lived more than 400 years ago. Yet people still go to see his plays. Shakespeare's plays are performed all over the world. Students study Shakespeare in school and at university. People write books about Shakespeare. There are Shakespeare theatres and Shakespeare festivals.

Shakespeare's plays and poems

Shakespeare wrote (or helped write) at least 38 plays. The plays were first printed as books in 1623. His friends wanted to stop other people selling bad copies of the plays, full of mistakes. Shakespeare wrote some long poems, and lots of short poems called sonnets. In his plays, people speak in poetry too.

The language of Shakespeare

Shakespeare used more English words than any other writer. He made up words and expressions too. When someone says quick as a flash or I haven't slept a wink, you are listening to Shakespeare. The English language has changed since Shakespeare's time. So, he is not always easy to read. But it's worth the effort.

1. William Shakespeare wrote plays and poetry.

2. Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England.

3. Shakespeare went to London to be a writer.

4. Shakespeare had a wife and three children.

5. Shakespeare's plays are performed all over the world.

6. Shakespeare wrote (or helped write) at least 38 plays.

7. Many of Shakespeare's plays were first performed at the Globe.

8. Shakespeare's plays were first printed as books in 1603.

9. People speak in poetry in his plays.

10. Shakespeare used more English words than any other writer.