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“Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.” - William Shakespeare, "All's Well That Ends Well" Reuters

William Shakespeare is arguably the most celebrated writer in history.

The literary works of the poet, playwright and actor have served as inspiration for writers and speechmakers for centuries. And after 400 years, his plays are still performed around the world, in many languages.

In celebration of his 450th birthday on April 23, we’ve gathered some of Shakespeare's 20 most memorable quotes. Read below for his words on topics like love, passion and dreaming big.

1. “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” ― William Shakespeare, "A Midsummer Night's Dream"

2. “I would challenge you to a battle of wits, but I see you are unarmed!” ― William Shakespeare

3. “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.” ― William Shakespeare

4. “We know what we are, but not what we may be.” ― William Shakespeare

5. “Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.” ― William Shakespeare, "Twelfth Night"

6. “There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” ― William Shakespeare, "Hamlet"

7. “They do not love that do not show their love. The course of true love never did run smooth. Love is a familiar. Love is a devil. There is no evil angel but Love.” ― William Shakespeare, "A Midsummer Night's Dream"

8. “Good night, good night! parting is such sweet sorrow, That I shall say good night till it be morrow.” ― William Shakespeare, "Romeo and Juliet"

9. “With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.” ― William Shakespeare

10. “I like this place and could willingly waste my time in it.” ― William Shakespeare

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William Shakespeare was born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, and died on April 23, 1616, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. His actual day of birth isn't known. But records show he was baptized on April 26, 1564 at Holy Trinity Church, leading most scholars to believe that he was born on or close to April 23. His birthday is typically celebrated by most on that day. Reuters

11. “Listen to many, speak to a few.” ― William Shakespeare

12. “Nothing will come of nothing: speak again.” ― William Shakespeare, "King Lear"

13. “Suspicion always haunts the guilty mind.” ― William Shakespeare

14. “Go wisely and slowly. Those who rush stumble and fall.” ― William Shakespeare

15. “You are a lover. Borrow Cupid's wings and soar with them above a common bound.” ― William Shakespeare, "Romeo and Juliet"

16. “Nothing is so common as the desire to be remarkable.” ― William Shakespeare

17. “Men in rage strike those that wish them best.” ― William Shakespeare

18. “Honesty is the best policy.” ― William Shakespeare

19. “Better a witty fool, than a foolish wit.” ― William Shakespeare, "Twelfth Night"

20. “Live, love, and let be.” ― William Shakespeare

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