William Shakespeare and His Life William Shakespeare, a writer and poet, was born on April 23,1564. He was thought of as a genius. He is mentioned with the same high position given to the masters of the arts who have become larger than life. He is one like them, so famous, that they are known by their last names only. William Shakespeare has had many affects on the course of Western civilization. He has impacted the English language, influenced drama, and has become part of Renaissance England. This great man affected so many things. William Shakespeare is an ingrained part of the English speaking