An Important Date in Shakespearean History

Yesterday, June 29, was the anniversary of the date when the Globe Theatre burnt down in 1613. The wooden building and thatched roof went up in flames after a cannon misfired while being used as a sound effect during a performance of Henry XIII. The Globe was rebuilt the following year, though it was later closed down by the Puritans in 1642. The theatre became famous for its association with William Shakespeare; his playing company, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men (later known as the King’s Men), built it in 1598, and many of his plays were performed there.

For more information on Shakespeare, check out Shakespeare For Beginners. It’s a good place to start learning more about the popular playwright’s famous works for those intimidated by the originals, though nothing beats seeing a performance in person.