Bard Bits: Be(lated) Birthday
Did you say cake?
Although it may seem I’m late in wishing William a happy birthday, I might actually be on time.
While traditionally Shakespeare’s birthday is celebrated April 23, it’s not certain what day he was born. Something about birth registry and waiting a few days blurs the true date.
Besides, birthdays weren’t that big of a deal in Shakespeare’s time, unless you were of nobility. I imagine Queen Liz I had quite the bash.
The more common folk instead celebrated their saint’s day. Shakespeare’s saint’s day was St. George, the purported dragon slayer guy.
Cakes and candles came upon the scene much, much later.
In fact, Shakespeare didn’t get a party until after his death. He even got a parade.
So Shakespeare might not have blown out candles and made a wish over an iced confection on his birthday, he did get a parade. It only took a century or so to get one.
Anyway, happy birthday, William. May your words continue to live on.
Pam Webb 
Happy BardDay, Will! And thanks for this interesting bit of birthday history, Pam!
There is always something fascinating about the Bard.
Agreed.
“Wait — no knife?” said Desdemona, having to slice her birthday cake instead with the blunt end of the decorative fork. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHAKESPEARE!
HaHa! That’s why cupcakes are a better choice.
Someone who actually deserved a parade on their birthday…….(not said in a snarky tone at all)
Although I’m sure he would have provided some clever line about how time marches on whether celebrated with a cake or not.