William Shakespeare was a very talented man known for his various literary works. His works include poems, plays and sonnets. His works are then divided into tragedies, comedies and stories. Shakespeare left this world centuries ago, but his writings continue to live on throughout the world today. He had a great impact on the world of literature and his existence will be remembered forever. In 1564, William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon (Hazell 32). Shakespeare's career appears to have begun around 1592. It was a difficult time for playwrights and actors. There was an epidemic of bubonic plague that caused concern for those who wanted to watch because they were surrounded by people potentially carrying the disease, thus making it difficult for playwrights and actors to find work ("William Shakespeare." 653-654). Not only was illness an obstacle that William Shakespeare had to overcome in his work, but he was also forced to face obstacles also related to religious aspects. The leaders of the Puritan community despised plays, acting, and other things of that nature. These authorities thought that these activities would distract people from focusing on the importance of practicing their religion. Theatrics and the like were not permitted to be performed in the city of London. They were banned. Eventually, despite all the obstacles, comedy and theater became a popular thing even though still forced out of town (“The Changing Status…”). After overcoming the difficulties of becoming an actor and playwright, William Shakespeare became renowned. His works reach people all over the world despite language barriers and different races and cultures. For centuries, the popularity of his work...... middle of paper...... Co., 1919. 5. Print.Ellis, Jessica. “What are Shakespeare's plays?” wiseGEEK. Conjecture Corp., 2003. Web. January 31, 2012. Frye, Roland Mushat. The Life and Times of Shakespeare. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1967. 16. Print.Hazell, Rebecca. Heroes: great men through the ages. New York: Abbeville Press, Nd 32. Print.McMillan, Eric. "Who was the greatest of all writers?" The greatest authors of all time. Np 2011. Web. 26 January 2012. “Race – Introduction”. Shakespearean criticism. eNotes.com. Gale Cengage, 2006. Web. January 31, 2012. Schwartz, Debora B. "The Works of Shakespeare: The Stories." ENGL 339. Np 2002. Web. 31 January 2012. "The Changing Status of Theatre." About.Com.Shakespeare. The New York Times Co., 2012. Web. January 31, 2012. “William Shakespeare.” American Encyclopedia. vol. 24. Danbury, CT: Grolier Inc., 1994. 652-654; 656. Print.