Shakespeare’s works have been celebrated for over four centuries, yet they continue to pose challenges for modern readers due to their archaic language and complex expressions. While many appreciate the poetic beauty of Shakespeare’s original text, reading his works in plain English offers several advantages, especially for beginners, students, and those new to his plays. In this post, we’ll explore why reading Shakespeare in plain English is crucial for understanding his timeless stories and appreciating his insights into human nature.

1. Overcoming Language Barriers

Shakespeare wrote in Early Modern English, which differs significantly from the English we speak today. Words like “thou,” “hast,” and “wherefore” can feel foreign, and complex sentence structures can make the text difficult to follow. For many readers, this language barrier prevents them from engaging fully with the material. Plain English translations help bridge this gap, making Shakespeare accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the original language.

Plain English versions break down Shakespeare’s intricate expressions into clear, straightforward language. For example, instead of puzzling over the line “wherefore art thou Romeo?” in Romeo and Juliet, readers can immediately understand that Juliet is asking, “Why are you Romeo?” This clarity is essential for those who might otherwise be discouraged by the dense language.

2. Focusing on Themes and Storytelling

Shakespeare’s plays are filled with universal themes—love, power, ambition, betrayal—that continue to resonate today. However, readers can easily miss these themes if they’re preoccupied with decoding the language. Reading in plain English allows readers to focus on what really matters: the story, the characters, and the themes that make Shakespeare’s works timeless.

For example, in Macbeth, the themes of unchecked ambition and moral corruption are crucial to understanding the tragedy. When students and readers aren’t bogged down by unfamiliar vocabulary, they can better engage with the narrative and relate it to their own experiences, making the story more relevant and impactful.

3. Engaging Students and New Readers

Shakespeare is often introduced in high school, but many students struggle with the language, leading to frustration and a lack of interest. Starting with plain English versions can help students grasp the core story before diving into the original text. When students understand the plot and characters, they’re more likely to engage with the deeper layers of meaning found in Shakespeare’s writing.

Educators can use plain English translations as a stepping stone, helping students build confidence before tackling the original. This approach ensures that students appreciate the drama, humor, and conflict inherent in Shakespeare’s plays, even if they initially find the language challenging.

4. Bridging to the Original Text

Reading Shakespeare in plain English doesn’t mean abandoning the original language. In fact, it’s often a pathway to better understanding and appreciating the original text. Once readers are familiar with the plot, characters, and themes, they can revisit the original version with a new perspective. The familiarity with the story makes it easier to appreciate Shakespeare’s poetic language, wordplay, and literary devices.

For instance, understanding the plot of Hamlet through a plain English version makes it easier to appreciate the rhythm and beauty of lines like “To be, or not to be: that is the question.” Readers can then explore how the original language adds depth to the character’s contemplation of life and death.

5. Supporting Modern Adaptations and Performances

Plain English translations also play a significant role in helping modern audiences connect with Shakespearean performances. Whether it’s in film, theater, or literature, many adaptations incorporate modern language while preserving the essence of Shakespeare’s stories. By reading Shakespeare in plain English, audiences can enjoy these adaptations without feeling lost.

Take, for example, the numerous modern film adaptations of Romeo and Juliet, such as Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film, which blends modern visuals with original dialogue. Understanding a plain English version beforehand helps viewers grasp the nuances of the plot, making the performance more enjoyable.

6. Encouraging Lifelong Learning and Appreciation

Ultimately, the goal of reading Shakespeare should be to enjoy the stories, understand the characters, and engage with the timeless themes. By starting with plain English versions, readers of all ages can access these stories without feeling intimidated. This approach encourages a lifelong interest in Shakespeare and provides a solid foundation for exploring his more complex works in the future.

For students, educators, and casual readers alike, plain English translations offer a gateway to the world of Shakespeare, making it possible for everyone to experience the brilliance of the Bard’s storytelling. Once readers feel comfortable with the content, they can gradually explore the richness and intricacies of Shakespeare’s original language.

Conclusion

Shakespeare’s works are literary treasures that deserve to be enjoyed by everyone, but the language can be a significant barrier for modern readers. Reading Shakespeare in plain English not only makes his plays more accessible but also enhances our understanding of the stories, characters, and themes that have made his works timeless. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or a newcomer to Shakespeare, starting with plain English versions is an effective way to appreciate the Bard’s genius while building the confidence to explore his original text.