Why Shakespeare's Works Endure

Among the many great authors, poets, and playwrights in the English language, one stands out in particular: William Shakespeare. His works are widely considered to be the epitome of English literature. Reading, or even better, watching his plays, one can understand why he holds this status.

Master of Language

Shakespeare was a master of language. His ability to express beauty through words is legendary, and many of our daily expressions originate from his works. From "all the world's a stage" to "too hip to stop and smother", his influence is unmistakable.

Understanding Human Emotion

Shakespeare understood the human experience better than many. He comprehended what makes people tick, how they think, and how they react. This understanding brought drama, humor, and emotion to the stage. In the 16th century, his plays were like soap operas, but conveyed through the lenses of beautiful language and profound themes.

Universal Themes

Shakespeare tackled all the big themes that permeate the human condition, from love and hate, to jealousy, fear, grief, and obsession. His writing speaks to these emotions in the audience, making his works timeless. His works remain relevant today because they reflect our shared human experience.

Example: Othello

In Othello, Shakespeare masterfully develops the character of Othello. The inner turmoil he expresses as he grapples with the decision to kill his wife, Desdemona, is a prime example of his skill. Othello uses powerful imagery to articulate his pain and regret:

If I quench thee, the candle, thou flaming minister, I can again thy light restore, should I repent me. But once put out thy light, Desdemona, thou cunningst pattern of excelling nature, I know not where is that Promethean heat that can thy light relume! [Othello, act 3, Scene 3]

He then goes on to admire Desdemona's beauty, highlighting the depth of his emotional conflict:

“… Yet ill not shed her blood, nor scar that whiter skin of hers than snow, and smooth as monumental alabaster.”

These lines showcase Shakespeare's ability to use powerful poetry to express complex human emotions. Such emotions are still felt and shared by readers in the modern era.

Conclusion

The enduring quality of Shakespeare's works lies in his ability to create highly complex, interesting, and deeply human characters. His unique gift allows his characters to express a wide range of emotions, culminating in timeless poetry. As he once said, If you have to ask, you'll never know. The knowledge of such profound art can only be gained through the exploration of his works.