The Comprehensive Reading of Shakespeare: Challenges, Strategies, and Benefits

Shakespeare, a name synonymous with the pinnacle of the English language and literature, has captivated readers for centuries. Can a person realistically read all of Shakespeare's plays and sonnets in a limited timeframe? And if so, how long would it take? This article explores the challenges of reading Shakespeare comprehensively, the strategies employed, and the benefits of such an endeavor.

Estimating the Timeframe for Reading Shakespeare

Reading Shakespeare's complete works is a monumental task. With thirty-seven plays and 154 sonnets, along with other poems like ldquo;The Rape of Lucrece,rdquo; the total reading time can be quite significant. A rough estimate suggests that reading each play takes about an hour, while each sonnet might take less, perhaps a quarter of an hour. Therefore, the total reading time would be approximately 25-30 hours just for the plays, plus an additional 15 hours for the sonnets, bringing the total to 40 hours or more.

For a non-native English speaker, this estimate might need adjustment upward. Nevertheless, the fundamental question remains: why would anyone want to read all of Shakespeare's work without a specific goal in mind? This pursuit can be driven by a genuine love for literature, academic interest, or even a desire to master the nuances of the English language.

Strategies for Reading Shakespeare

Reading Shakespeare exhaustively doesn't have to be an arduous task. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

Read a Play a Week

A good approach is to read a play per week. This structured method ensures that you don't get overwhelmed and provides ample time for reflection and analysis. Personally, I tend to finish an entire play within 2-3 hours, sometimes even in one sitting. However, I also enjoy reading the footnotes and appended matters, which add depth to the reading experience.

Focus on Sonnets in Sets

The sonnets require a slightly different approach. Some people find that reading them in sets of 10-20 is more manageable. The florid language can be particularly challenging, so taking breaks or varying the reading material can help maintain interest and comprehension.

Personal Experience

Even at a young age, I embarked on this literary journey. By the age of 17, I had read all of Shakespeare's plays, a goal that seemed paramount as a college freshman. This early engagement with Shakespeare helped me feel more connected to academic discussions and helped bridge the gap between high school and college.

The Riverside Compilation: A Preferred Edition

One of the key editions I used was the Riverside Shakespeare. This compilation includes most of the commonly accepted plays and sonnets, providing a solid foundation for understanding Shakespeare's works. The 2nd edition, however, includes less reliable additions attributed to Shakespeare and editorial changes that may diminish the originality of his works. Therefore, the first edition is often preferred.

Benefits of Reading Shakespeare

Reading Shakespeare offers a myriad of benefits, from enhancing vocabulary and understanding complex themes to developing critical thinking skills. Engaging with Shakespeare's works can also improve one's ability to appreciate the nuances of the English language and the power of imagination.

Moreover, the act of reading Shakespeare repeatedly, over time, can be a deeply enriching experience. It can foster a lifelong love of literature and a deeper understanding of human nature and the scope of human experience. As I age, I plan to immerse myself in Shakespearean plays, reading and listening until the very end of my days.

In conclusion, while reading all of Shakespeare's plays and sonnets is a significant undertaking, it is not only achievable but also highly rewarding. Whether you're a curious reader, an academic, or a lover of literature, engaging with Shakespeare's works can be a transformative and delightful experience.