Tips for Understanding Shakespeare

Studying Shakespeare isn't easy for everyone. For many, there is a bit of a language barrier that prevents full understanding of the text. For others, analysis is difficult even if they understand Shakespearean English. However there are some ways to make understanding Shakespeare a little easier.

If you, or your students, are having a hard time understanding Shakespeare, get a 'Shakespeare Made Easy' version of the text. These are published by Barron's Educational Series, Inc. A modern English version of the text is placed side by side with the original, unabridged text. With this series the student can spend less time wondering what lines like "No, none that thou hast wit enough to make" means. Just look to the adjoining page and see that it means "No. None that you have brains to make." (Act IV, scene 1, Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare Made Easy, Alan Durband).

If analysis of Shakespeare is a little troublesome, try having students write their analysis in two columns rather than in a traditional essay format. In the left column, put the main statements or points being made. In the right column, place the analysis or discussion next to the points. A main point and its corresponding discussion/analysis should be seen side by side. This should help students that think in a linear fashion and need things laid out step by step. Not everyone thinks in paragraphs. Once this is done the student can work on putting their analysis into a traditional essay.

If all else fails, watch a theatrical or video production AFTER reading the play. If you watch the movie without reading, it's kind of cheating. However, it can help increase your understanding of the play after reading. Our understanding of language comes in part from visual cues and actions, which you obviously can't see when you're reading. Watching will basically help you understand what in the world is going on.

You may also want to check out ShakespeareHigh.com. This website will not help you do your homework, but it does have good resources for helping students understand Shakespeare. It features guides, tips, a glossary and a discussion forum. You can also find info on Shakespeare's life and a photo album here.

Hopefully these suggestions help you or your students understand Shakespeare. If you are a student and these things don't help you, see your instructor. A good teacher would much rather see their students ask for help than see them remain silent and get poor grades.