Reflecting on Shakespeare four centuries after his passing

Wearing masks of the "Bard of Avon," members of the public prepare for the parade marking the 400 years since the death of William Shakespeare, in Stratford-upon-Avon in central England on April 23, 2016. World Book and Copyright Day celebrations take place globally on April 23 to promote the fun of reading and serve as a reminder that books connect us with our shared history. Early in 2016, when events marking 400 years since Shakespeare's death were held in his birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon in England, Chinese fans and actors even performed at the scene to show their respect and love for the great playwright. People watch a performance of excerpts of a Shakespeare play in the grounds of the birthplace of William Shakespeare during events marking 400 years since the bard's death in Stratford-upon-Avon in central England on April 23, 2016.