The Importance of Reading Shakespeare in Plain English

21 August, 2024
Scott La Counte

For centuries, Shakespeare’s works have been celebrated for their poetic language, complex characters, and universal themes. However, for many readers, especially beginners, the barrier to fully appreciating his plays lies in deciphering the Early Modern English in which they were written. While reading Shakespeare in its original form can be rewarding, there is significant value in starting with plain English translations. These adaptations maintain the richness of the stories while making them more accessible to modern readers.

1. Breaking Down Language Barriers

Shakespeare’s language is beautiful, but it can be difficult to understand for those unfamiliar with the vocabulary, sentence structures, and idioms of the 16th century. Words that were common then may be entirely foreign now, making it challenging to grasp even the basic plot. Plain English translations break down these language barriers by translating the text into modern, conversational language while retaining the essence of the original dialogue.

2. Making Shakespeare Accessible to All Readers

Shakespeare’s works are a staple in education, yet they can be intimidating for students and new readers. When a text is hard to understand, it can lead to frustration, disengagement, and even a dislike for literature. Reading Shakespeare in plain English helps readers of all levels—whether they’re high school students, English language learners, or adults—gain confidence and develop an appreciation for the stories, characters, and themes.

3. Understanding the Core Themes and Storylines

At its heart, Shakespeare’s work is about human experiences that remain relatable today—love, ambition, jealousy, betrayal, and more. Plain English versions allow readers to focus on these core themes and follow the storylines without getting lost in the language. For instance, Macbeth’s themes of unchecked ambition and guilt are clearer when the language is simplified, allowing the reader to connect more deeply with the emotions of the characters.

4. Bridging the Gap to the Original Text

Reading Shakespeare in plain English doesn’t mean abandoning the original text altogether. It can serve as a stepping stone. Once readers are familiar with the characters, plot, and themes in a more accessible form, they can return to the original text with greater understanding and confidence. The experience of comparing the plain English version with the original can also highlight the richness and subtlety of Shakespeare’s word choices.

5. Supporting Classroom Learning

Educators often face the challenge of making Shakespeare engaging for students. Introducing plain English versions can help bridge the gap, allowing students to grasp the plot and key themes before diving into more detailed analysis. This method helps students focus on the literary devices, character development, and thematic elements without being overwhelmed by unfamiliar language.

6. Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Shakespeare

The goal of reading Shakespeare should be to enjoy the stories and appreciate his insights into human nature. By removing the initial language barrier, plain English versions make these works enjoyable from the start, fostering a lifelong interest in Shakespearean drama. As readers grow more confident, they may seek out the original texts to experience the poetic beauty and depth that have captivated audiences for generations.

Conclusion

Reading Shakespeare in plain English opens the door for a wider audience to experience his timeless works. By simplifying the language without losing the essence of the stories, these translations make Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets accessible, enjoyable, and relevant for modern readers. Whether you’re a student, a lifelong learner, or someone exploring Shakespeare for the first time, starting with a plain English version is a powerful way to connect with one of the greatest literary figures in history.

Older Post Newer Post

August 2024

Shoping Cart

Total: $0.00

Shoping Cart

Total: $0.00