Scholars generally agree that Shakespeare wrote his first play sometime between 1588 and 1592.
History
The first reference to Shakespeare came in 1592 by a rival playwright, indicating that Shakespeare was an established figure.
Evidence
Records show that "The Comedy of Errors" was performed in 1594, but clues within the play indicate that it was written at least two years earlier.
Context
Shakespeare began his career as a playwright during the latter years of the Elizabethan age. Thomas Kyd and Christopher Marlowe were among his contemporaries.
Controversy
While many scholars believe that "The Comedy of Errors" was Shakespeare's first play, others, such as critic Harold Bloom, believe that "Henry VI" was his first, contending that "The Comedy of Errors" is a much more sophisticated composition.
Significance
Within a decade the amateur Shakespeare transformed into perhaps the greatest writer in English. He wrote his masterpieces after the turn of the 17th century.
