William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon". His works, including plays such as "Hamlet", "Macbeth", and "Romeo and Juliet", have had a profound impact on literature and the arts, and his influence continues to be felt today. Shakespeare's writing is known for its rich language, complex characters, and exploration of universal themes such as love, power, and the human condition.