William Shakespeare, often referred to as the Bard of Avon, is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language. Born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's life was marked by his prolific career as a playwright and poet. He wrote some of the most enduring works in English literature, including "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," and "Macbeth." Shakespeare's influence on the English language and literature is immense, and his works continue to be studied and celebrated for centuries.