William Shakespeare was an English poet, playwright and actor, that is regarded as one of the best poets and playwrights. He was born in Stratford-upon-Avon. Little is known about his childhood and teenage years. From historical context we can deduce that he, like other children, was seen as a miniature adult. He would have endured strenuous labour, in preparation for the adult world. When he reached the age of seventeen, he met his wife, Anne Hathaway. She fell pregnant and he now was obliged to marry her. He married when she was three months pregnant. Little is known how he supported his wife and daughter during this time. They continued to live in Stratford and had four more children. Having five children and a wife to support, he made moved to London, in search of a new career. This is when he first took an interest in theatre. He was able to make a stable income and visit his family frequently, working as an actor and eventually a playwright. In time he gained enough wealth, that his family moved into New Place, one of Stratford's largest houses. Shakespeare and his family lived happily in their home, with a comfortable lifestyle. Shakespeare died on the 23rd of April, 1616. To this day his works are still studied in detail and cherished by many.