Shakespeare in Stratford

Stratford-upon-Avon attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by the legacy of William Shakespeare. Ben Crystal, an actor and stage producer, explores why this small English town is synonymous with one of history's greatest playwrights. Despite being 400 years since his death, Shakespeare’s works continue to resonate globally due to their deep exploration of human emotions and universal themes.

The journey begins at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was baptized and later buried. His grave bears a curse against moving his bones. The narrative then shifts to Shakespeare's family home, highlighting that he was born there in 1564; it served as both residence and workplace for his father, a glove maker. This early exposure likely influenced the references to gloves found throughout his plays. Education played a crucial role too—Shakespeare attended King Edward’s School nearby for free due to his father's position as town counselor, receiving instruction primarily in Latin and Greek which enriched the classical elements of his writing.

Stratford during Shakespeare's time was a bustling market town, attracting travelers with diverse life stories that likely fueled his imagination for playwriting. At 18, he married Anne Hathaway, who was pregnant at their wedding; they had three children by the age of 22. The period between this family life and his emergence in London is known as 'The Lost Years,' shrouded in mystery regarding what he did during that time. Some speculate he may have been inspired by traveling actors performing plays in Stratford, which ignited his passion for theater.