William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. His prolific body of work, including iconic plays such as 'Hamlet', 'Romeo and Juliet', and 'Macbeth', explores the depths of human emotion, ambition, and morality, making his works timeless and universally relevant. Shakespeare's influence on literature, theatre, and the arts is unparalleled, and his plays continue to be performed and studied globally.