William Shakespeare has influenced many individuals in extraordinary ways, and will continue to do so as life prospers. The numerous plays he created taught readers a new morality towards life itself. Shakespeare's literature ranges from poetry to plays that countless people have had the luxury of reading and enjoying. His works show the points of view of most of his characters, as does the opera The Merchant of Venice. The thoughts that could have crossed his mind are unimaginable and make us think about how lucky he was to have such an amazing gift. In today's society, people can see the various influences of Shakespeare's works and learn from them. His works are still read today, films have been made about him and his works, and almost every person on this planet knows who William Shakespeare is. To gain more knowledge about Shakespeare, let us examine his life, literary works, and various criticisms related to his works. William Shakespeare was raised by John Shakespeare and Mary Arden, who were united during the time Mary's first daughter was born Arden. Mary Arden inherited ten marks, an estate in Wilmcote, valuable possessions, and the crops grown on her father Robert's land after his death (Schoenbaum 21-22). If it had not been for their marriage William Shakespeare would not have existed. John Shakespeare, William's father, made gloves for a living. The brilliant playwright was born in Stratford-upon-Avon (“Shakespeare” 1). Shakespeare was born with a true gift, and this gift is still appreciated today by those who read his works. On April 23, 1564, Shakespeare was born, three days later he was baptized on April 26, 1564 (Schoenbaum 24-25). Being only three days old, William Shakespeare...... middle of paper...... John. "Overviews and general studies." Rpt. in Shakespearean criticism. Ed. Michelle Lee. vol. 53. Farmington Hills, MI: Gale Group, Inc., 2000. 105, 106, 107, 108. “William Shakespeare.” Poet.org. Np, nd Web. April 23, 2011.. 1, 2.Schoenbaum, Samuel. William Shakespeare: a documentary life. New York, NY: OxfordUniversity Press, Inc., 1977. 21, 22, 24, 25, 240. “Shakespeare, William (1564-1616).” The Hutchinson Dictionary of the Arts. 2004: np SIRSRenaissance. Network. April 22, 2011. 1, 2.Shakespeare, William. The Merchant of Venice. New York, NY: Washington Square Press, 1957. Young, R. V. "The Bard, the Black, the Jew." First things. March 2004: 22-28. LORDRenaissance. Network. April 30 2011. 1, 4.