I am fascinated by the question: Who was Shakespeare. I take it as an expression of awe and wonder at a genius who kept almost all of his personal life hidden. It is also an opportunity to know about the historical backdrop in which many of his plays are set. The question will never be resolved (which is great news if you want to have the bard perform in your fictional stage). I remember reading a scifi story where the protagonist travels in time and meets Shakespeare. Can't recall the title of the story, unfortunately.
Anyho, here is Keir Cutler's (a superlative Canadian playwright/performer) adaptation of Mark Twain's essay.
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Don Pedro: You embrace your charge too willingly. I think this is your daughter.
Leonato: Her mother hath many times told me so.
Benedick: Were you in doubt, sir, that you asked her?
Although one can not be certain, all the evidence points to the fact that