William Stevenson (poet) facts for kids

William Stevenson (born around 1530, died 1575) was an English church leader and is thought to be the writer of an early English play called Gammer Gurton's Needle. This play was a funny story, known as a comedy, written in the early days of English theater.

Early Life and Education

William Stevenson was born in a city called Durham, England. He went to Christ's College, Cambridge, which is a famous university. He earned several degrees there. In 1553, he got his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts. Later, in 1560, he earned two more degrees: a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Divinity.

His Work in Theater

Records from Christ's College show that William Stevenson was involved in putting on plays. This was between the years 1550 and 1553, and again from 1559 to 1560. While the records don't directly name Gammer Gurton's Needle, his involvement suggests he had a strong interest in theater. In 1561, he became an important church official at Durham Cathedral.