William Shakespeare is one of the greatest writers in the history of English literature. His plays and sonnets are studied all over the world and are a staple of many English literature curriculums. However, there are some who argue that Shakespeare is outdated and not relevant to modern students. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why teachers should teach Shakespeare to their students.
Shakespeare's works are timeless
One of the reasons why Shakespeare's works are still relevant today is because they deal with universal themes and ideas that are still relevant to modern society. Themes such as love, jealousy, ambition, and betrayal are just as relevant today as they were when Shakespeare wrote his plays. By studying Shakespeare, students can gain a deeper understanding of these themes and how they relate to the world around them.
Shakespeare's language is a valuable skill
Shakespeare is known for his complex language, including his use of iambic pentameter and his extensive vocabulary. By studying Shakespeare, students can improve their reading comprehension and their ability to analyze complex texts. Additionally, studying Shakespeare's language can help students improve their own writing and communication skills.
Shakespeare's plays are part of our cultural heritage
Shakespeare's plays are a part of our cultural heritage, and studying them is a way to connect with the past and understand our own cultural identity. By studying Shakespeare, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the history and culture of England and the Western world. Additionally, Shakespeare's plays have influenced countless other works of literature, art, and film, making them an important part of our shared cultural legacy.
Shakespeare's plays are engaging and entertaining
While Shakespeare's plays are often seen as difficult or boring, they are actually some of the most engaging and entertaining works in the English language. Shakespeare's plays are full of drama, humor, and memorable characters, making them a joy to read and study. By teaching Shakespeare to their students, teachers can help them discover the joy of reading and the power of literature.
Studying Shakespeare can improve critical thinking skills
Studying Shakespeare requires students to analyze complex texts, think critically about characters and themes, and make connections between the text and the world around them. By studying Shakespeare, students can improve their critical thinking skills and learn to approach complex texts with confidence and skill.
In short, there are many compelling reasons why teachers should teach Shakespeare to their students. Shakespeare's works are timeless, his language is a valuable skill, his plays are part of our cultural heritage, his plays are engaging and entertaining, and studying Shakespeare can improve critical thinking skills. By teaching Shakespeare, teachers can help their students develop a deeper appreciation of literature, history, and culture, and equip them with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century.
Works Cited:
Hageman, Andrew. “Why Teach Shakespeare?” Edutopia, George Lucas Educational Foundation, 27 Sept. 2016, www.edutopia.org/blog/why-teach-shakespeare-andrew-hageman.
Jones, Emma. “Why Shakespeare Is for All Time.” British Council, 26 Apr. 2016, www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/why-shakespeare-all-time.
Nadel, Ira. “5 Reasons Why We Study Shakespeare.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 9 Jan. 2019, www.britannica.com/list/5-reasons-why-we-study-shakespeare.
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