Unlocking Shakespeare: A Fun and Easy Guide for High School Students
Shakespeare’s works are often considered challenging for high school students, but with the right approach, they can become engaging and enjoyable. At Fundamentals First Tutoring Centre in Edmonton, we believe that breaking down Shakespeare’s language and themes can help you appreciate his masterpieces. In this guide, we’ll explore helpful strategies to make understanding Shakespeare easier and more fun!
1. Start with the Basics: Who Was Shakespeare?
William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest playwright in history, wrote 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several poems. His works are still widely read and performed today because of their deep insights into human nature, universal themes, and exceptional language.
Key Facts about Shakespeare:
- Born in 1564 in England.
- His plays were first performed at the Globe Theatre.
- He wrote during the Elizabethan era, a time of great social and political change in England.
- His most famous works include “Romeo and Juliet,” “Hamlet,” “Macbeth,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
2. Breaking Down the Language: How to Understand Shakespearean English
Shakespeare’s language may seem difficult at first, but it’s important to remember that it’s just an older form of English. Here are some tips to help you understand it better:
Tip #1: Know the Key Differences
Shakespeare wrote in Early Modern English, which is quite different from the English we use today. Here are a few examples of common words you might encounter:
- Thou = You
- Thee = Your (object form)
- Art = Are
- Hast = Have
- Dost = Do
- Ye = You (plural)
Tip #2: Read Aloud
Reading Shakespeare out loud helps you get a feel for the rhythm and flow of the language. Iambic pentameter, a rhythmic pattern Shakespeare often used, sounds natural when spoken aloud.
Tip #3: Use Modern Translations
Many editions of Shakespeare’s plays come with side-by-side translations in modern English. These can be a helpful starting point to understand the meaning of the text before diving into the original version.
3. Understand the Themes: What Is Shakespeare Really Saying?
One of the reasons Shakespeare’s plays are so timeless is that they explore universal themes that are still relevant today. Here are some common themes in his works:
- Love and Relationships: Shakespeare often explores the complexity of love, from the passionate love of Romeo and Juliet to the political marriage in “Macbeth.”
- Power and Ambition: Characters like Macbeth and Julius Caesar grapple with the desire for power and the consequences of seeking it.
- Fate vs. Free Will: In plays like “Hamlet” and “Romeo and Juliet,” characters question whether their destinies are controlled by fate or by their own choices.
- Identity and Self-Discovery: Shakespeare’s characters often struggle with who they are, as seen in “Twelfth Night” and “The Merchant of Venice.”
4. Analyzing the Characters: Who Are Shakespeare’s Most Memorable Figures?
Shakespeare’s plays are full of complex, multi-dimensional characters. To understand them, focus on their motivations, flaws, and relationships with others. Here are a few famous characters to explore:
- Hamlet: The melancholy prince who struggles with vengeance, justice, and his sense of duty.
- Lady Macbeth: The ambitious and ruthless wife of Macbeth, whose desire for power leads to her downfall.
- Romeo and Juliet: Two star-crossed lovers whose passion leads to tragic consequences.
- Shylock: The Jewish moneylender in “The Merchant of Venice,” who seeks justice but is ultimately consumed by revenge.
5. Explore Shakespeare’s Humor and Wordplay
Shakespeare wasn’t just about tragedy and drama; he also wrote plenty of comedic plays. His wordplay, puns, and wit are often at the heart of his comedies, such as “Much Ado About Nothing” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Pay attention to these playful moments—they’ll make his works more enjoyable to read!
6. Watch Performances to Bring the Plays to Life
Sometimes, reading Shakespeare can be challenging because the language is unfamiliar. Watching performances of his plays can help bring the story to life and give you a clearer understanding of the plot and characters. Many versions are available on YouTube or through streaming services, so take advantage of them!
7. Discussion and Reflection: Make Shakespeare Personal
As you read through Shakespeare’s works, take time to reflect on the themes, characters, and language. Discussing the play with friends or classmates can help you understand different perspectives and deepen your appreciation of the text.
Ask yourself:
- How do the themes of the play relate to your own life?
- Do the characters remind you of people you know?
- What do the characters’ choices teach you about human nature?
Final Thoughts
Understanding classical work can be very intimidating but don’t you worry we have provided tips and tricks in a previous blog post that you can check out for more information. Throughout the years, we have noticed by breaking down the language, focusing on the themes and characters, and engaging with his plays actively, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for his work.
At Fundamentals First Tutoring Centre in Edmonton, we believe that every student has the potential to succeed, especially when provided with the right tools and guidance. Whether you’re tackling complex texts, working on essay writing, or striving to understand difficult concepts, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to begin your tutoring journey.
