Some sonnets have become shortcuts to romantic expression, but are they truly as romantic as we have been led to believe? What’s more, Shakespeare didn’t even invent the sonnet! Discover the origin of this famous poetic form and more!

Shakespeare’s work famously presents examples of queer expression. From same-sex lovers to queer-icons and transgender heroes. So, did Shakespeare feel all the things he wrote about, or simply understand them?

In 1613 the Globe theatre suffered a tragic fate, burned down in a fire. But what or who caused this tragedy? Let’s just say, there’s a reason the Globe theatre remains the only thatched building in London.

In Shakespeare’s day, audience could pay a meagre penny to stand in the crowded yard to watch a play as a groundling. But why do we call them that? And what does the word ‘groundling’ mean?