Hamnet Shakespeare
Son of William Shakespeare, literary figure

Born
February 2nd, 1585
440 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1596
428 years ago — 11 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Born in 1585, the only son of a prominent playwright, Hamnet Shakespeare was baptized in Stratford-upon-Avon. The child, who died at age 11 in 1596, became a significant cultural figure posthumously due to the literary works of his father. Hamnet's name appears in several of William Shakespeare's works, and his untimely death is speculated to have influenced themes of loss and grief found in plays such as 'Hamlet'. Although Hamnet's life was brief, the connection to one of history's most celebrated writers has elicited interest and discussion regarding the personal context behind Shakespeare's storytelling.
Being the only son of William Shakespeare
Speculation regarding influence on 'Hamlet'
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