In which year was the First Folio of Shakespeare published?

The First Folio of William Shakespeare, officially titled "Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies," was published in 1623. This collection is significant because it was the first compiled edition of Shakespeare's works after his death in 1616 and it contains 36 plays, many of which had never been printed before.

The timing of the publication is crucial as it reflects the efforts of his colleagues, John Heminges and Henry Condell, who sought to preserve Shakespeare's writings for posterity. The First Folio is now regarded as one of the most important books in English literature, being a primary source for many of his plays.

The other years mentioned do not correspond to the First Folio's publication. For instance, 1609 was the year when Shakespeare's sonnets were published, while 1616 marks the year of Shakespeare's death. The year 1585 does not pertain to any published works of Shakespeare. Understanding the historical context of the First Folio helps to appreciate its importance in not just Shakespearean literature but also in the preservation and evolution of English drama.