LITERATURE

Despite his many contributions to English literature, surprisingly little is known about William Shakespeare's life. Here’s what we do know about the celebrated actor, poet, and playwright.

The superstition that saying “Macbeth” will bring bad luck has been around since Shakespeare’s play debuted.

‘Having an albatross around your neck’ means “facing an inescapable burden.” As for where the phrase originated, you can thank classic literature.

Shakespeare is the first known citation for over a thousand words and even more meanings—but new research occasionally shows that Shakespeare actually didn't originate some phrases, a trend that will likely continue over time.

From Reynard to Robin Hood, these fictional foxes all left a lasting impression.

The original manuscript is one of the few Holmes drafts to ever come up for sale.

Take a look back at the surprising origins of “Carrie,” Stephen King’s first book—and more importantly, discover how his wife Tabitha King played a pivotal role in its creation.

'Bridge to Terabithia,' Katherine Paterson’s celebrated 1977 children's book about friendship and loss was, incredibly, based on a true story.

Weirdly enough, it's the same guy who gave Snoopy the opening to his epically bad novel.

The origins of Ireland's ‘Emerald Isle’ nickname trace back to the 18th-century physician, poet, and activist who penned the poem “When Erin First Rose.”

From the author’s inspiration to the impact on schools, here’s what you need to know about S.E. Hinton’s iconic coming-of-age novel ‘The Outsiders.’

Plenty of nepo babies have earned their places in history. But it’s always good to acknowledge the doors open to people who have rich relatives—or whose dad knows the manager of a clogging troupe.