Influential playwrights have shaped the landscape of theater through their innovative storytelling and unique styles. Notable figures include William Shakespeare, whose works like Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet explore complex human emotions, and Tennessee Williams, known for his poignant plays such as A Streetcar Named Desire that delve into personal struggles and societal issues. Other significant playwrights include Anton Chekhov, whose use of subtext and character development transformed modern drama, and Arthur Miller, recognized for his critiques of the American Dream in plays like Death of a Salesman. These writers have left a lasting impact on both theater and literature.