Why Is Shakespeare Read in English?

Many people wonder why Shakespeare's works continue to be studied and performed in English, especially since they were written in Early Modern English, not in the modern English we speak today. This article explores the reasons behind the enduring popularity of Shakespeare's literature and why his plays remain essential reading in English.

Common Misconceptions and Clarifications

A frequent misconception is that the language used by Shakespeare is Old English. This is incorrect. Shakespeare wrote in Early Modern English, a language that, while different in some aspects, can be understood by modern English speakers with minimal effort. Old English, exemplified by texts like Beowulf, is distinct and much harder to comprehend without extensive study. This historical language is not the Early Modern English of Shakespeare, which is the language of plays like Romeo and Juliet and Hamlet.

Shakespeare and Language

One of the reasons why Shakespeare is read and studied in English is due to his masterful use of language. He invented, adapted, and used hundreds of words that are still in use today. His skill in expressing complex ideas with vivid imagery and metaphors has made his works indispensable to the English language and literature.

Popular Misunderstandings About Shakespeare’s Language

Some argue that Early Modern English is too difficult to understand, requiring extensive notes to comprehend. While there are differences in spelling and some archaic expressions, the language is far more comprehensible than Old English. Modern readers can navigate Early Modern English with the help of contextual notes and a basic understanding of the historical period.

The Universality of Shakespeare’s Themes

Another reason for the continued study of Shakespeare is the universality of the themes in his plays. His plays explore timeless and relatable emotions and experiences such as love, jealousy, revenge, ambition, and mortality. These themes are not confined to a specific culture or time period, allowing his works to resonate with modern audiences as they did with Elizabethan audiences.

Impact of Shakespeare’s Language on English

The influence of Shakespeare on the English language is profound. Many common expressions and idioms in English can be traced back to his plays. Some examples include:

“All’s well that ends well” “Break the ice” “Wear one’s heart on one’s sleeve” “Wild goose chase”

This influence demonstrates why his language is still relevant and appreciated in the modern world.

Complex Characters and Their Relatability

The depth and complexity of Shakespeare's characters are another reason for their enduring popularity. Characters in Shakespeare's works are multidimensional and multifaceted. They have strengths, weaknesses, virtues, and vices, making them relatable to contemporary audiences. For example, Hamlet's introspection about life and death, and Macbeth's ambition ultimately leading to his downfall, are intricate character studies that continue to fascinate people.

Adaptability Across Mediums and Cultures

The adaptability of Shakespeare's works is yet another reason for their continued relevance. His plays have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into various forms of media, including films, television shows, musicals, ballets, and operas. This adaptability allows new generations to engage with Shakespeare's works in ways that suit their interests and preferences.

Educational Value

Finally, the educational value of studying Shakespeare's works cannot be overlooked. Learning about these texts provides valuable insights into history, social norms, literature, and language. It helps students understand literary devices like metaphors, and explore different aspects of British culture and psychology. This educational aspect further cements Shakespeare's place in global literature and justifies his continued significance in English studies.

Conclusion

The enduring popularity of Shakespeare's works, despite being penned in a language from centuries ago, can be attributed to several factors. These include the universal nature of his themes, the richness and depth of his language, the complexity of his characters, and their adaptability across different mediums. Thus, Shakespeare remains a crucial figure in English literature and continues to be read and studied around the world.