He appears to have retired to Stratford around 1613, where he died three years later. Between 15 he began a successful career in London as an actor, writer, and part owner of the playing company the Lord Chamberlain's Men, later known as the King's Men. Scholars believe that he died on his fifty-second birthday, coinciding with St George’s Day.Īt the age of 18 he married Anne Hathaway, who bore him three children: Susanna, and twins Hamnet and Judith. Shakespeare was born and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon. His plays have been translated into every major living language, and are performed more often than those of any other playwright. His surviving works consist of 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and several other poems. He is often called England's national poet and the 'Bard of Avon' (or simply 'The Bard'). William Shakespeare (baptised 26 April 1564) was an English poet and playwright, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. Revealing new riches with each listening, this production of 'Hamlet' is an invaluable aid for students, teachers and all true lovers of Shakespeare - a recording to be treasured for decades to come.

It combines a full cast with stirring music and sound effects to bring this magnificent Shakespearen classic vividly to life. This clear, subtly nuanced, stunning dramatization, presented by The Renaissance Theatre Company in association with 'Bbc' Broadcasting, features such luminaries as Sir John Gielgud, Derek Jacobi, Emma Thompson and Christopher Ravenscroft. Three generations of legendary leading actors, many of whom first assembled for the Oscar-winning film 'Henry V', gather here to perform the rarely heard complete version of the play.

Now Kenneth Branagh plays the leading role and co-directs a brillant ensemble performance. Among actors, the role of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, is considered the jewel in the crown of a triumphant theatrical career.

Among Shakespeare's plays, 'Hamlet' is considered by many his masterpiece.

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