WHY STUDY SHAKESPEARE?
“Many may question the importance of studying a writer who died over 400 years
ago?’’ Although William Shakespeare may have lived in the 16th century, his works
remain an important part of English literature. Some see Shakespeare as irrelevant in
today’s time, yet his plays remain studied worldwide because they explore everlasting
human nature, as well as improve language skills and provide cultural insight that
continues to hold up in society.
WHY STUDY SHAKESPEARE?
“Many may question the importance of studying a writer who died over 400 years
ago?’’ Although William Shakespeare may have lived in the 16th century, his works
remain an important part of English literature. Some see Shakespeare as irrelevant in
today’s time, yet his plays remain studied worldwide because they explore everlasting
human nature, as well as improve language skills and provide cultural insight that
continues to hold up in society. This essay explores recognizing the persevering
relevance of Shakespeare’s works by examining his themes, literary techniques, and
cultural norms. His work provides some examples of insights into human history and
what can be gained from it.
First, the universality of Shakespeare's themes is due to their exploration into
human nature. Whether his tales convey a message about love, betrayal, ambition or
guilt they still embody the emotions and events experienced in today’s life. Take
Macbeth, for example; His ambition goes unchecked leading to guilt, madness and
death — an idea still presented in today's political or corporate scandals. Another
example is in Romeo and Juliet, young love burns bright and fast — leading to rash
decisions that many teenagers still struggle with. These illustrations show that
Shakespeare's writing portrays true human experiences in a dramatic and meaningful
way. Thus, his plays have emotional depth and recognition that keeps them relevant
throughout the different eras.
Moreover, delving into Shakespeare enhances students' language and skills of
analysis. His works are composed of an extensive vocabulary, poetic framework and
use advanced literary devices such as metaphors, irony and soliloquy. At the start, it is
difficult to understand, learning his use of language helps develop strong reading
comprehension skills and engages students to try and understand complex ideas. In
Hamlet, for example, the well-recognized soliloquy "To be, or not to be" is an existential
and mortality reflection in poetic format. Reading such texts demands focus and
understanding, thereby creating literary appreciation as well as discipline of
mind. Furthermore, Shakespeare's plays offer historical and cultural insight into post-
Elizabethan society. They highlight the social problems of his age: gender roles and
power struggles; class division; justice. For instance, The Taming of the Shrew's
portrayal of what marriage is and expectations of gender roles offers a lens for
discussing feminism and societal norms. Likewise, Julius Caesar explores leadership,
betrayal and political scheme— themes relevant to this day. Consequently, students
understand literature as well as history, society, and human behavior. Shakespeare thus
acts as a link between the past and present, helping to enrich our understanding of
each.
It could be said that Shakespeare's language is difficult and irrelevant to modern
students. Intimidating Elizabethan English and unfamiliar references may cause certain
students to disengage. Students usually struggle with the poetic structure and language
of King Lear initially, for example. This obstacle fosters resilience, critical thinking and
discussion. Through effective teaching, these challenges are made into opportunities for
development. Learning Shakespeare's language, in fact, equips students with essential
skills for both academic success and everyday life.
All things considered, although the language of Shakespeare might be challenging, its
benefits in study vastly exceed the challenges. His plays are a staple of education
because their themes hold universal significance, they masterfully manipulate language
and offer societal insights. Interacting with Shakespeare increases students’ knowledge
of human nature, culture and literature — making him as relevant today as ever before.
Bibliography (APA Style)
Crystal, D. (2008). Think on My Words: Exploring Shakespeare's Language. Cambridge
University Press.
Greenblatt, S. (2005). Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare. W.
W. Norton & Company.
Shakespeare, W. (1606). Macbeth. London: First Folio.
Shakespeare, W. (1597). Romeo and Juliet. London: First Quarto.
Shakespeare, W. (1603). Hamlet. London: First Quarto.
Shakespeare, W. (1623). The Taming of the Shrew. London: First Folio.
Shakespeare, W. (1623). Julius Caesar. London: First Folio.
