Where was William Shakespeare born?
Stratford-upon-Avon
Name one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies.
"Romeo and Juliet", "Hamlet", or "Macbeth"
What were the standing audience members at the Globe Theatre called?
Groundlings
What type of poem is Shakespeare famous for writing that has 14 lines?
Sonnet
In what year did a modern reconstruction of the Globe Theatre open?
1997
What was Shakespeare’s father’s occupation?
Glovemaker and local official
In "Romeo and Juliet", what is the relationship between the title characters?
They are star-crossed lovers from feuding families.
Which part of the Globe Theatre was painted with stars and clouds and used for special effects?
The “heavens”
What rhythmic pattern did Shakespeare often use in his writing, with lines of 10 syllables?
Iambic pentameter
How many plays did Shakespeare write in total?
39
At what age did Shakespeare marry Anne Hathaway?
18
What genre is "A Midsummer Night’s Dream"?
Comedy
How much did it cost for groundlings to stand and watch a play at the Globe?
One penny
Name a phrase coined by Shakespeare that we still use today.
“Break the ice,” “heart of gold,” or “catch a cold”
True or False: Shakespeare’s plays are still performed worldwide today.
True
How many children did Shakespeare have?
Three
Which play explores themes of jealousy, betrayal, and revenge, because of the untimely death of the character's father?
Hamlet
In what year did a fire burn down the original Globe Theatre?
1613
What is the rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnet?
ABAB CDCD EFEF GG
Which Queen supported the arts and allowed theaters like the Globe to flourish?
Queen Elizabeth I
Which acting company did Shakespeare join in London?
The Lord Chamberlain’s Men (later known as the King’s Men)
In "Macbeth", what drives Macbeth’s downfall?
Ambition and the desire for power
What religious group ordered the closure of all theaters in 1642?
The Puritans
What is a two-line stanza that often ends Shakespeare’s sonnets called?
Couplet
Why is Shakespeare considered one of the greatest writers of all time?
For his universal themes, innovative use of language, and deep understanding of human nature.
What unique architectural feature of the original Globe Theatre allowed for natural lighting during performances, and how did this design influence the experience of Elizabethan audiences?
The Globe Theatre featured an open roof over the central yard (the "pit"), allowing natural sunlight to illuminate the stage. This design required performances to take place during the day and created a dynamic interaction between the actors and the audience, as the spectators in the pit stood close to the stage in full view of the performers.