Why is Shakespeare so popular?

Reading Shakespeare Resource Links Online Literary Criticism (http://www.ipl.org.ar/ref/litcrit/) The Internet Public Library provides extensive resources on Shakespeare's works, such as articles, literary criticisms, discussions on his plays, and many links with descriptions to other Shakespeare sites. http://www.ipl.org.ar/cgi-bin/ref/litcrit/litcrit.out.pl?au=sha-9 Shakespeare Magazine (http://www.shakespearemag.com/) This is the Web site for print magazine Shakespeare, sponsored by Georgetown University and Cambridge University Press. Shakespeare is published three times a year and covers all the latest information and available resources for teachers and Shakespeare fans. You will find teaching resources, an archive of articles, and descriptions of past issues. Shakespeare: His Life and Times http://www.shakespeare.org.uk/content/view/10/10/ http://www.emints.org/ethemes/resources/S00000727.shtml http://www.bardweb.net/works.html http://library.thinkquest.org/19539/ http:// ...  more

I'm currently enrolled in a Shakespeare class in college and I have chosen to write a research report on the popularity of Shakespeare. Any input would be much appreciated if anyone is interested. My question is: Why do Shakespeare and his plays/other works continue to be so popular among so many different audiences? I am essentially attempting to describe the draw of Shakespears works on audiences of all types; young and old, etc. I appreciate any help that could be offered! -- Charleen Publiski (char@tonster.  more