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Actors and Theatre Companies
Discover the typical routine of an actor during Shakespeare’s era and the prominent acting companies and actors that dominated the theatrical landscape.
Costume, Makeup and Special Effects
Discover the three important production elements of Shakespeare’s plays: costume, makeup, and special effects.
Portrayals of Shakespeare on Stage and Screen
While his literary canon is renowned, Shakespeare himself is an enigma and this allows for great variation in portrayals of the Bard. Let's explore!
Religion and Superstition
Explore religious history prior to and during Elizabeth I’s reign. Then see how Shakespeare used popular superstitions and religious beliefs in his plays.
Shakespeare and His Contemporaries
William Shakespeare was by no means the only successful playwright of his time. Explore the relationship between Shakespeare and his contemporaries.
Shakespeare and the Royal Court
Explore Shakespeare’s literary output under Elizabeth I, the importance of royal patronage, and the transition from an Elizabeth to a Jacobean court.
Shakespearean London
Sixteenth-century London was a bustling, overcrowded city in the midst of huge growth. Discover how Shakespeare incorporated some local places into his plays.
Shakespeare's Life in His Work
Although his literary canon is internationally renowned, very little is known about Shakespeare's life and family. But can we find hints within his plays?
The Globe Theatre
The Globe Theatre: a theatre synonymous with William Shakespeare. Discover the origins of the Globe Theatre, its evolution, and its current modern-day form.
The Influence of Shakespeare on Popular Culture
The plays of William Shakespeare have been produced, adapted, and reimagined many, many times over the years. Discover the selected examples explored here.
The Language of Shakespeare
As the foremost playwright of his era, Shakespeare’s use of language within his plays made an important--and entertaining--contribution to the English language.
Understanding Shakespeare's Audiences
Going to the theatre in Shakespearean London was a common pastime. Explore the different sections of theatre audiences and their activity throughout a play.