William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616), an English playwright, poet, and actor, is largely recognized as the greatest writer in the English language and the greatest dramatist in the world. He is known as the "Bard of Avon" and England's national poet (or simply "the Bard").

Between 1589 and 1613, Shakespeare wrote the majority of his known works. His early plays were mostly comedies and histories, and they are often considered to be among the greatest in both genres. Until 1608, Shakespeare mostly authored tragedies, including Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth, all of which are considered among the best works in the English language. His surviving writings include 39 plays, 154 sonnets, three lengthy narrative poems, and a few additional verses, some of which are contested authorship. His plays have been performed more than any other playwright's and have been translated into every major living language.

Detailed Information:

Min. estimated sales: 2 billion

Max. estimated sales: 4 billion

Original language: English

Genre and/or major works: Plays and poetry e.g.A Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Hamlet

Number of books: 42