William Shakespeare (baptized April 26, 1564-April 23, 1616) was a British poet, playwright, and actor. He is known universally as the greatest writer England ever produced. Often called England's national poet, Shakespeare wrote multiple sonnets, several poems, and over 38 plays, including Hamlet, King Lear, Othello, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and Much Ado About Nothing. Shakespeare's language set him apart from other writers using vivid descriptions and creating well-thought-out characters. His plays and poems have appealed to readers for over 400 years and have been made into operas, movies, musical comedies, and instrumental works.