Anne Hathaway

When one hears the name "Anne Hathaway," the star of The Princess Diaries probably comes to mind. However, in the context of Shakespeare, the name refers to William's wife and the mother of his children. Still, the story of Anne Hathaway Shakespeare seems like it would fit right in Hollywood tabloids.

Anne Hathaway married William Shakespeare when she was 26...and he was 18. And, when they married on November 27, 1582, she was pregnant with their first child. For many years, Anne and William lived apart; she remained in Stratford with their three children while William followed his passion to the theatres of London. Although Shakespeare retired to Stratford to live with Anne until his death, what he left behind for her seems pitifully inadequate a bequest from a husband to a wife. Shakespeare's will reads: "'I give unto my wife my second best bed with the furniture.'" What kind of love did Anne and William share?

At first, these facts may seem shocking -- however, in the correct historical context, Anne and William's relationship is not so scandalous. Learn more about the mysterious woman behind Shakespeare: PBS In Search of Shakespeare: Anne Hathaway