Shakespeare's will goes on show

ONE of the most important original documents relating to William Shakespeare is now on show in his hometown for the very first time since it was written 400 years ago.

Cared for by The National Archives, the original will of the world’s greatest playwright is on loan to The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust from now until 4th August as part of a major exhibition celebrating 400 years of Shakespeare’s legacy.

This is the first time Shakespeare’s will has returned to the very town it was written since Dr. John Hall, Shakespeare’s son-in-law, took the will to London in June 1616 to get a grant of probate.

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the charity which promotes Shakespeare’s work, life and times and cares for the world’s largest Shakespeare-related museum and archives, will temporarily display Shakespeare’s last will and testament in its Treasures exhibition, which gives a fascinating insight into Shakespeare’s social circle.

William Shakespeare died on the 23rd April 1616 at the age of 52. By the time of his death, he was a man of considerable means and in possession of substantial property. He left the bulk of his estate to his elder daughter, Susanna Hall. He left £300 to his younger daughter, Judith. He gave his wife, Anne Hathaway, his second-best bed. Beds and other pieces of household furniture were often the sole bequest to a wife. It was common practice for the best things to go to the children and the second best to the wife.

Paul Taylor, head of collections at The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be able to present this once in a lifetime opportunity for people to see Shakespeare’s original will back in his hometown where it was drafted by local solicitor Francis Collins 400 years ago. Displaying this historic document alongside other treasures from our world-class collections will complete the story of Shakespeare’s social circle and his relationships with family, friends and business associates.”