oct 15, 1596 - Shakespeare becomes a gentleman

Description:

It’s thought that William revived his father’s lapsed application for a family coat of arms in 1596. By now apparently he was also a successful businessman. In the application he had to defend himself against accusations that “Shakespeare ye player” did not merit the honour of a coat of arms. By this time Shakespeare’s company had performed Romeo and Juliet, Richard II and a Midsummer Night’s Dream.

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