William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, often hailed as one of the greatest playwrights and poets in the English language, was born in April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. His life spanned a vibrant period known as the Elizabethan era, during which he penned a remarkable collection of plays, sonnets, and poems that continue to resonate with audiences today. Shakespeare's works, ranging from the tragic depths of "Hamlet" to the whimsical charm of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," explore the complexities of human nature, love, and ambition, making them timeless treasures of literature.

Shakespeare's influence extends far beyond the stage; his inventive use of language and mastery of storytelling have left an indelible mark on literature and the arts. If you’re curious to dive into his world, this app offers a wonderful selection of his plays and poems, each inviting you to experience the rich tapestry of emotions and themes that have captivated readers and audiences for centuries. Enjoy the journey through his extraordinary works!

Twelfth Night

Read by LibriVox Volunteers 4.5
Twelfth Night is a delightful exploration of love and identity, set in the vibrant land of Illyria. When shipwrecked Viola disguises herself…

Richard III

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Richard III is an early history play probably written and performed around 1592-93. It is the culmination of Shakespeare's earlier three pla…

Measure For Measure

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Generally considered one of Shakespeare's problem plays, Measure for Measure examines the ideas of sin and justice. Duke Vincentio turns Vie…

The Taming of the Shrew

4.9
The Taming of the Shrew is a controversial comedy by William Shakespeare that explores the battle of the sexes and an unconventional marriag…

Shakespeare Hamlet John Gielgud 1948

Read by John Gielgud 4.8
William Shakespeare's Hamlet is a timeless tragedy that explores themes of revenge, madness, and mortality. This 1948 recording features Joh…

Coriolanus

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Shakespeare was passionately interested in the history of Rome, as is evident from plays like Titus Andronicus, Julius Caesar, and Antony an…

The Merchant of Venice

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William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice was probably written between 1596 and 1598, and was printed with the comedies in the First Foli…

The Taming of the Shrew

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The Taming of the Shrew is one of Shakespeare's earliest comedies, and was inspired by classical Roman comedy and the Italian commedia dell'…

Richard II

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Richard II is a historical tragedy by William Shakespeare that delves into the complexities of power, kingship, and the nature of authority.…

The Two Gentlemen of Verona

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The Two Gentlemen of Verona is the earliest comedy written by Shakespeare (and possibly his first play), probably written around 1590-91. I…

Much Ado About Nothing (version 2)

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Much Ado About Nothing is generally considered one of Shakespeare’s best comedies, because it combines elements of robust hilarity with more…

King Lear

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King Lear is widely held as the greatest of Shakespeare's tragedies; to some, it is the greatest play ever written. King Lear abdicates the …

A Midsummer Night's Dream (version 2)

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Shakespeare's festive comedy combines classical Athenian characters (Duke Theseus and his conquered Amazonian bride Hippolyta) with four con…

The Tempest (version 2)

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Few plays have been seen as a more fitting conclusion to a playwright's career than Shakespeare's The Tempest. Focusing on the aging sorcere…

Antony and Cleopatra

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Antony and Cleopatra is a tragedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written sometime between 1603 and 1607. It was first printed…

The Winter's Tale

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Mad with jealousy, King Leontes of Sicilia orders his best friend Polixenes killed, his child abandoned, and his wife put on trial for adult…

William Shakespeare -- Julius Caesar

4.7
Set in Italy in 1925, this adaptation of William Shakespeare's classic play, Julius Caesar, explores the rise of a new Roman dictator and th…

Shakespeare Much Ado About Nothing

4.8
As part of the BBC’s Shakespeare Retold season, Drama On 3 provides an opportunity to hear one of the Bard’s best-loved comedies, brought th…

King Henry IV, Part 2

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King Henry IV, Part 2 continues the epic tale of Prince Hal as he navigates the tumultuous path to kingship. Set against the backdrop of a d…

Shakespeare's Sonnets (version 4)

Read by Elizabeth Klett 4.8
Shakespeare's sequence of 154 sonnets deals with such themes as love, time, death, immortality, lust, and sex. The poems follow but also dep…

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