William Shakespeare's Milestones
Birth
Born in Stratford-upon-Avon to John Shakespeare, a glover and alderman, and Mary Arden, daughter of a landowning family. Baptised 26 April 1564.
Likely attended King's New School
Probably attended King's New School in Stratford, receiving intensive education in Latin and classical authors.
Married Anne Hathaway
Married Anne Hathaway; marriage license issued 27 November 1582. Anne gave birth to daughter Susanna in 1583, twins Hamnet and Judith in 1585.
Birth of children
Daughter Susanna baptised 26 May 1583; twins Hamnet and Judith baptised 2 February 1585. Hamnet died aged 11 in 1596.
'Lost years' in Stratford and London
Little is known about Shakespeare's activities; possibly worked as a schoolmaster or fled Stratford for London.
First plays performed in London
By 1592, several of his plays were performed in London; attacked in print by playwright Robert Greene as an 'upstart crow.'
Joined Lord Chamberlain's Men
Joined and became a shareholder in Lord Chamberlain's Men, leading acting company in London.
Purchased New Place in Stratford
Bought New Place, the second-largest house in Stratford, indicating growing wealth.
Helped build Globe Theatre
Helped finance and build the Globe Theatre on the south bank of the Thames, where many of his plays were performed.
Became King's Men
Company received royal patent from King James I and became the King's Men.
Invested in Stratford tithes
Purchased a share in the Stratford tithes, further increasing his wealth.
Took over Blackfriars Theatre
Company acquired Blackfriars indoor theatre, expanding performance venues.
Later plays and collaborations
Wrote fewer plays, often in collaboration, including with John Fletcher. Retired after Globe Theatre fire in 1613.
Retired to Stratford
Retired from London to Stratford-upon-Avon, managed property and family affairs.
Death
Died in Stratford-upon-Avon at age 52. Buried at Holy Trinity Church. Left bulk of estate to daughter Susanna.
Published First Folio
First Folio of collected plays published posthumously by fellow actors John Heminges and Henry Condell, preserving his works for posterity.