Shakespeare lived from 1567 to 1616. Scholars and historians often refer to him being a part of the Elizabethan Era, the period of English history during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, which lasted from 1558 - 1603, and was itself part of the larger Tudor Period. Shakespeare's life also overlapped with the Jacobean Era (1603-1625). Queen Elizabeth was a fan of theater and did see Shakespeare's plays performed. Her Successor, King James I, was also a fan of the arts and theater.