Shakespeare Day

William Shakespeare - 450th Birth Anniversary Scott 1576 (2014) Shakespeare Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the life and works of William Shakespeare, one of the greatest playwrights and poets in history. It is observed on April 23rd, which is believed to not only be Shakespeare's birthday in 1564, but is also the date of his death in 1616. The 450th anniversary of Shakespeare's birth was commemorated by a single stamp issued by the Vatican Post Office in 2014. The stamps were printed in sheets of ten, and the stamp depicts Shakespeare holding a flower in his hand. The stamp was designed by Czech artist Marina Richterova. Although authorship of some of his works is disputed by scholars, Shakespeare produced approximately 38 dramas (comedies, histories, tragedies) and 154 sonnets as well as two narrative poems, mostly written 1589-1613. His works are translated into virtually every language throughout the world. Shakespeare's characterizations of people are said to be universal, and applicable to all times and cultures. This article was originally published in Vatican Notes in 2015. The article can be accessed by clicking on the reference link below. REFERENCE: James C. Hamilton, Vatican Notes, Volume 63, No. 363, First Quarter 2015, page 4, Vatican City New Issues: Nov 2014