Wednesday, 27 November 2024

Happy Anniversary to the Shakespeares

Today marks the 442nd anniversary of William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway's wedding.


William Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway on November 27, 1582. This date is derived from the marriage license issued in Stratford-upon-Avon. 

At the time, Shakespeare was a young 18, and Anne was older, at 26. Their union is often discussed for its peculiarities, including the age gap and the rapid wedding arrangements, possibly because of Anne being pregnant with their first child, Susanna, born in May 1583.

The licence was issued by the consistory court of the diocese of Worcester which allowed the marriage with just one proclamation of the marriage banns instead of the customary three successive Sundays.

William died in April 1616 at the age of 52 and was survived by his wife, who survived the Bard for seven years. Except for a few mentions in legal documents, Anne's life remains largely unknown.

We send our warmest wishes for a happy anniversary to Mr and Mrs Shakespeare, wherever they may be!


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