In Bill Bryson's book "Shakespeare: The World as Stage," the author provides a detailed exploration of William Shakespeare's life and times. Bryson delves into the social and historical context of the Elizabethan era, highlighting the cultural, political, and artistic influences that shaped Shakespeare's works. He presents intriguing anecdotes and challenges some common assumptions about the playwright, giving readers a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare's genius.

One interesting fact shared by Bryson is about Shakespeare's house in Stowe, Buckinghamshire, which boasted nine of the first flush toilets in England. This revelation not only underscores the playwright's wealth but also reflects the advancements in sanitation during that period. Bryson's use of such details helps to paint a vivid picture of Shakespeare's life beyond the theater, showcasing the interplay between his domestic life and the remarkable societal changes of his time.