early modern, 1500-1700

Presents a factual outline of the writer's life while conveying the social and historical background to their writing.

Follows the life and career of the English playwright and poet, from his youth in Stratford to his success in London's theater world and recognitionas a great writer.

Michael Wood travels to England in search of the true story behind the life of playwright and poet William Shakespeare, an intensely private person.

Looks at Shakespeare's unique use of language in both prose and verse, including the new phrases he coined, his word arrangement, and his use of puns and metaphors.