William Shakespeare was born in Stratford -upon-Avon ( Warwickshire ) in 1564 , baptized April 26 , the exact date of birth is unknown . Tradition relates it to the birth of April 23 this date coincides with the exactly known day of his death. Also , April 23 is the day of St. George , patron saint of England , and to this day the legend could be timed specifically birth greatest national poet . With the English name "Shakespeare" is translated as " stunning spear ."

His father, John Shakespeare , was a wealthy craftsman, often elected to various important public offices . In 1565 John Shakespeare was an alderman , and in 1568 - bailiff . He did not attend church services , that paying large fines . Shakespeare's mother , nee Mary , belonged to one of the oldest Saxon families. Total , the couple had eight children , William was born third .