The late Dr. W.H. Furness, the editor of the Variorum Shakespeare, said

"Shakespeare (author of the plays) so devoted himself to the study of every trade, profession, pursuit, and accomplishment, that he became master of them all, which his plays clearly show him to have been."

Francis Bacon in his youth said :

Is it a coincidence that "Shakespeare" and Bacon appear to have acquired all knowledge then exisitng-- Bacon having made this one of his professed aims in life?

SirBacon.org - Sir Francis Bacon's New Advancement of Learning