A new study of Shakespeare’s life and times, which illuminates our understanding and appreciation of his works. * Combines an accessible fully historicised treatment of both the life and the plays, suited to both undergraduate and popular audiences * Looks at 24 of the most significant plays and the sonnets through the lens of various aspects of Shakespeare’s life and historical environment * Addresses four of the most significant issues that shaped Shakespeare’s career: education, religion, social status, and theatre * Examines theatre as an institution and the literary environment of early modern London * Explains and dispatches conspiracy theories about authorship