william shakespeare
- Proper noun:
- The name of a specific, historically significant English playwright and poet: "William Shakespeare" refers to the individual widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist, who lived from 1564 to 1616.
- Proper noun:
- The works of William Shakespeare are studied worldwide.
- William Shakespeare wrote approximately 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several other poems.
- Many actors dream of performing in a play by William Shakespeare.
"The Shakespearean era": referring to the period of English history during which William Shakespeare lived and wrote, often synonymous with the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods.
- The theatre architecture of the Shakespearean era was very different from today's.
"A Shakespearean tragedy": a term used to describe a play by Shakespeare that follows the conventions of tragedy, often featuring a noble protagonist with a fatal flaw.
- 'Hamlet' is a prime example of a Shakespearean tragedy.
Shakespearean (adj): of, relating to, or characteristic of William Shakespeare or his works.
- She is an expert in Shakespearean sonnets.
Shakespearian (adj): an alternative spelling of 'Shakespearean'.
- The festival features Shakespearian performances.
- The Bard of Avon: A common epithet for William Shakespeare.
- The Swan of Avon: Another historical poetic name for Shakespeare.
"To quote Shakespeare": to recite a line or passage from the works of William Shakespeare.
- He loves to quote Shakespeare in everyday conversation.
"Shakespeare in the Park": a phrase referring to outdoor theatrical productions of Shakespeare's plays, a common cultural event in many cities.
- We're going to see 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' for Shakespeare in the Park this weekend.
"To have not slept one wink" (from 'Cymbeline'): Though not a direct idiom about Shakespeare, this phrase originates from his play and is an example of how his language permeates English.
- I was so anxious last night, I have not slept one wink.
"The world's my oyster" (from 'The Merry Wives of Windsor'): Another phrase coined by Shakespeare that has become a common English idiom meaning one has the opportunity to achieve anything.
- With this degree, the world's my oyster.
- English poet and dramatist considered one of the greatest English writers (1564-1616)