William Shakespeare

I have a very pressing worry, over the past few years of my school life i have been hearing an awful lot about some bloke who goes by the name of William Shakespeare. Now who the blazes is this fellow???

I have persistently asked my English literature teacher, but all he does is 'ummm' and 'ahhh' about it then change the subject, asking the class some pointless question usually along the lines of 'has anyone ever heard of the bible??'

I heard from friends that he's written a few plays... but im still in the dark. I wrote a play at primary school but that doesnt mean everybody knows who i am does it? If anyway one can 'throw me bone' here i will be very grateful and may well save myself further embarrassment at school.

oh, one more thing.. what is the bible?