The art of painting actors in leading character roles has been around since the time of David Garrick; it continued into modernity, as illustrated by this portrait of Laurence Olivier as Coriolanus.
Catherine Simpson Painting ShakespeareExploring the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust’s VIP and Visitors' books held in our archives.
Robyn Greenwood Going DigitalIn Shakespeare's times, little boys and girls were often dressed alike, wearing dresses until about the age of seven.
Elizabeth Sharrett Shakespeare in 100 ObjectsAvril Rowlands imagines Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare's wife, as a talented female writer that comes up with the cunning plan to get her plays performed under her husband's name when he suffers rejection as a playwright.
Mareike Doleschal Shakespeare's Life juliet filesIn honour of International Women’s Day, this post looks back at 18th century attitudes towards femininity through contemporary depictions of Ophelia.
International Women's Day Say it with Flowers juliet filesExploring Antoon Claeissins, 'A Family Saying Grace', c.1585, Oil on wood, a painting from our collections
Victoria Jackson Shakespeare in 100 ObjectsAt a time when illustrations of Shakespeare's scenes were in high demand, Henry Bunbury accepted the call and painted beautiful adaptations.
Rosalyn Smith Painting ShakespeareFebruary's Picture of the Month features an image of Ophelia, from the RSC's acclaimed 2008 production of Hamlet starring David Tennant and directed by Greg Doran.
Helen Hargest Picture of the MonthSpecial notes and thoughts about the "Say it with Flowers" exhibition.
Say it with FlowersThis inkwell, as a symbol of literacy and education, is an important artefact owned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
Stephanie Appleton Shakespeare in 100 Objects