The question of who the most successful male author of all time is can be subjective depending on how one defines success. However, a widely accepted view is that the most successful male author of all time is William Shakespeare. Shakespeare is widely regarded as the greatest playwright of all time, having written 37 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems and a few other poems. His works have been translated into more than 80 languages and his plays have been performed more than any other writer in history. Additionally, his works have influenced literature, theatre, and film throughout the centuries, making him the most renowned and successful male author of all time.