Decoding the Bard: A Beginner’s Guide to Reading Shakespeare

So, you want to read Shakespeare? Welcome to a world of kings and queens, star-crossed lovers, mischievous fairies, and profound philosophical musings! The language can seem daunting at first, filled with unfamiliar words and archaic sentence structures. But don’t be intimidated. With a little patience and the right approach, you can unlock the beauty and brilliance of Shakespeare’s plays and poems. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully navigate the world of the Bard.

## Step 1: Choose the Right Play (Start Small!)

Not all Shakespeare plays are created equal when it comes to accessibility. Beginning with a complex tragedy like *Hamlet* or *King Lear* can be overwhelming. Instead, opt for one of the shorter, more straightforward comedies or histories. Here are a few excellent choices for beginners:

* **A Midsummer Night’s Dream:** A lighthearted and whimsical comedy filled with fairies, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements. The language is relatively accessible, and the plot is easy to follow. Its fantastical elements make it a fun and engaging introduction to Shakespeare. It is widely regarded as one of his most accessible comedies and makes an excellent starting point.
* **Romeo and Juliet:** While a tragedy, the story is widely known, which can help you follow the plot. The themes of love, hate, and family conflict are universal and relatable. Be aware, though, that the language can be dense in places.
* **Twelfth Night:** Another hilarious comedy centered around mistaken identity, love triangles, and witty wordplay. Its characters are memorable, and its plot twists are entertaining.
* **Richard III:** A historical play, this one deals with political intrigue and villainy. It can be a bit longer, but the character of Richard is captivating, and the historical context is fascinating.
* **The Taming of the Shrew:** A controversial comedy, it still offers accessible language and clear plot. The themes are, however, outdated by modern standards and discussions of the play’s themes are often helpful. The controversies themselves can act as a talking point, engaging new readers.

Avoid starting with:

* **Hamlet:** The language is complex and philosophical, and the plot is full of ambiguity.
* **King Lear:** A long and emotionally draining tragedy with intricate family dynamics.
* **Measure for Measure:** A ‘problem play’ with complicated morality and ambiguous characters. The plot is complicated, and the language has complex and philosophical undertones.

## Step 2: Find a Good Edition (And Use the Footnotes!)

The edition you choose can make a big difference in your understanding. Look for editions with:

* **Extensive Footnotes:** These are crucial for understanding unfamiliar words, phrases, and allusions. Modern editions include explanations of archaic language, historical context, and literary references right on the page, usually at the bottom. The Arden Shakespeare, the Oxford Shakespeare, and the Folger Shakespeare Library editions are all excellent choices. These often contain detailed introductions and explanatory notes which help significantly.
* **Clear Text Layout:** The text should be easy to read, with ample spacing and clear differentiation between dialogue and stage directions.
* **Line Numbers:** Essential for referencing specific passages in discussions or essays.
* **Introductions:** Often provide helpful background information on the play’s historical context, themes, and characters. Reading these introductions *after* your first read-through can be particularly beneficial.
* **Glossaries:** Many editions include a glossary of common Shakespearean words and phrases.

**Digital vs. Print:** Both have advantages. Digital editions allow for easy searching of words and phrases, while print editions offer a more tactile and immersive reading experience. Many resources are also available for free online. The Folger Shakespeare Library provides free access to the texts of Shakespeare’s plays and poems on their website. Project Gutenberg also offers free electronic versions of Shakespeare’s works, although these may lack the extensive annotations of modern editions.

## Step 3: Understand Shakespearean Language (Thou Art Not Alone!)

Shakespeare’s language is Early Modern English, which differs from contemporary English in several ways. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

* **Archaic Words:** Shakespeare used many words that are no longer in common use. Examples include:
* *Thou, thee, thy, thine:* These are the familiar forms of *you, you, your, yours*. Use *thou* for the subject of a sentence, *thee* for the object, *thy* before a consonant, and *thine* before a vowel or *h*. For example: “Thou art beautiful,” “I give thee this ring,” “Thy beauty shines,” “This book is thine.”
* *Hath, doth:* These are the third-person singular present tense forms of *have* and *do*. For example: “He hath done well,” “She doth sing sweetly.”
* *Art:* The second-person singular present tense form of *to be*. For example: “Thou art wise.”
* *Ere:* Before.
* *Anon:* Soon, immediately.
* *Hither, thither, whither:* Here, there, where.
* *Hence:* From here.
* *Perchance:* Perhaps.
* **Word Order:** Shakespeare sometimes rearranged the order of words in a sentence for emphasis or poetic effect. For example, instead of saying “I saw him,” he might write “Him I saw.” Don’t be afraid to rearrange the words in your head to make the sentence easier to understand.
* **Poetic Devices:** Shakespeare’s plays are full of poetic devices, such as:
* **Metaphors:** Comparing two unlike things without using *like* or *as*. For example, “All the world’s a stage.”
* **Similes:** Comparing two unlike things using *like* or *as*. For example, “My love is like a red, red rose.”
* **Alliteration:** The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words. For example, “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.”
* **Imagery:** Using vivid language to create a mental picture in the reader’s mind. The use of such devices creates vibrant and memorable pieces of art, enriching the experience of the plays.
* **Iambic Pentameter:** Shakespeare frequently wrote in iambic pentameter, a rhythmic pattern of 10 syllables per line, alternating unstressed and stressed syllables. This creates a natural, flowing rhythm that is pleasing to the ear. While you don’t need to analyze every line, being aware of this rhythm can help you understand the flow of the language.
* **Puns and Wordplay:** Shakespeare was a master of puns and wordplay. Pay attention to words that have multiple meanings or sound similar to other words. These jokes add depth and humor to his plays.
* **Omissions:** Sometimes words were shortened or omitted for the sake of rhythm. For example, ’tis (it is), ’twas (it was), o’er (over). Understanding these common omissions helps maintain the rhythm and cadence of the verses.

**Tips for Understanding Shakespearean Language:**

* **Read slowly and carefully.** Don’t rush through the text. Give yourself time to decipher the language.
* **Use the footnotes!** This is the most important tip. The footnotes will explain unfamiliar words and phrases.
* **Read aloud.** Hearing the words spoken can help you understand the rhythm and meaning.
* **Look up unfamiliar words.** Don’t be afraid to use a dictionary or online resource to look up words you don’t know. The Oxford English Dictionary is an excellent resource, but a simpler dictionary will suffice for most purposes.
* **Try paraphrasing.** After reading a passage, try to put it into your own words. This will help you make sure you understand the meaning.
* **Don’t get bogged down by every single word.** Sometimes, you can understand the general meaning of a passage even if you don’t understand every single word. Focus on the overall meaning and context.

## Step 4: Understand the Characters and Plot

Shakespeare’s plays are populated with complex and memorable characters. Pay attention to their motivations, relationships, and actions. Understanding the plot is also essential for following the story.

* **Read a plot summary beforehand:** Before you begin reading the play, read a brief plot summary to get a general idea of what happens. This will help you follow the story more easily.
* **Create a character list:** As you read, keep track of the characters and their relationships to each other. A character list can help you keep track of who’s who and what’s going on.
* **Pay attention to character motivations:** Why are the characters doing what they’re doing? What are their goals and desires? Understanding their motivations will help you understand their actions.
* **Look for clues about character:** Shakespeare uses descriptive language to portray his characters in ways that reflect their personality or the events of the story.
* **Consider the historical context:** Shakespeare’s plays were written for a specific audience in a specific time period. Understanding the historical context can help you understand the play’s themes and characters. Research the Elizabethan era to gain a better understanding of the societal norms, beliefs, and values that influenced Shakespeare’s writing. Things such as social hierarchies, gender roles, and political tensions all play a role in the story and understanding them is critical to understanding the narrative.

## Step 5: Read Actively (Engage with the Text!)

Reading Shakespeare isn’t a passive activity. You need to actively engage with the text to truly understand it.

* **Annotate the text:** Write notes in the margins, underline important passages, and highlight key words and phrases. Annotating the text will help you remember what you’ve read and make connections between different parts of the play.
* **Ask questions:** As you read, ask yourself questions about the characters, plot, and themes. Why did the character do that? What does this passage mean? What is the significance of this symbol?
* **Make connections:** Try to connect the play to your own life and experiences. Do the characters remind you of anyone you know? Do the themes resonate with you in any way? Connecting the play to your own life will make it more meaningful and memorable.
* **Visualize the scenes:** Imagine the play being performed on a stage. What do the characters look like? What are they wearing? What is the setting like? Visualizing the scenes will help you understand the action and characters better.
* **Keep a Reading Journal:** Create a dedicated space to record your thoughts, interpretations, and reflections as you read through the play. Write down your favorite quotes, analyze character development, and explore the play’s themes in your own words. This journal will serve as a valuable resource for future discussions and deeper understanding.

## Step 6: Watch a Performance (See It Come to Life!)

Shakespeare’s plays were written to be performed. Watching a performance can bring the text to life and help you understand it in a new way.

* **Attend a live performance:** If possible, attend a live performance of the play. Seeing the actors on stage and hearing the words spoken aloud can be a powerful experience.
* **Watch a filmed version:** If you can’t attend a live performance, watch a filmed version of the play. There are many excellent filmed versions available, from traditional stage productions to modern adaptations.
* **Read the play *before* watching the performance:** Reading the play beforehand will help you understand the story and characters better. You’ll be able to appreciate the actors’ interpretations and the director’s vision more fully.
* **Pay attention to the actors’ interpretations:** How do the actors portray the characters? What choices do they make in their performances? The actors’ interpretations can shed new light on the characters and their motivations.
* **Consider the director’s vision:** What is the director trying to say with this production? How does the director’s vision affect your understanding of the play? Different directors can bring out different aspects of the play.

## Step 7: Join a Reading Group or Class (Share the Experience!)

Reading Shakespeare can be even more rewarding when you share the experience with others.

* **Join a reading group:** A reading group is a great way to discuss the play with other people and hear different perspectives. You can learn a lot from other readers’ insights and interpretations.
* **Take a class:** A class can provide you with a more structured learning experience and guidance from an expert. A good teacher can help you understand the play’s historical context, literary devices, and themes.
* **Participate in online forums:** There are many online forums dedicated to Shakespeare where you can discuss the plays with other enthusiasts. These forums can be a great resource for asking questions, sharing insights, and learning from others.
* **Discuss the play with friends and family:** Even if they’re not Shakespeare experts, discussing the play with friends and family can help you understand it better. Talking about the characters, plot, and themes can help you clarify your own thoughts and interpretations.

## Step 8: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help (We’ve All Been There!)

Reading Shakespeare can be challenging, and it’s okay to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher, librarian, or a Shakespeare expert for guidance.

* **Consult online resources:** There are many excellent online resources dedicated to Shakespeare. The Folger Shakespeare Library website is a great place to start. It offers a wealth of information about Shakespeare’s life, works, and the Elizabethan era.
* **Read critical essays:** Reading critical essays can give you new insights into the play and its themes. Look for essays by reputable Shakespeare scholars.
* **Watch lectures:** Many universities offer online lectures on Shakespeare. These lectures can provide you with a more in-depth understanding of the plays.
* **Remember that everyone struggles with Shakespeare at first.** Even Shakespeare scholars had to start somewhere. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t understand everything right away. Just keep reading and learning, and you’ll eventually get the hang of it.

## Step 9: Read More Shakespeare (The More, The Merrier!)

The best way to become a better Shakespeare reader is to read more Shakespeare. The more plays and poems you read, the more familiar you’ll become with his language, characters, and themes.

* **Explore different genres:** Shakespeare wrote comedies, tragedies, histories, and romances. Try reading plays from different genres to broaden your understanding of his work.
* **Read his sonnets:** Shakespeare’s sonnets are some of the most beautiful and moving poems ever written. Reading his sonnets will give you a deeper appreciation for his poetic skill.
* **Read plays by Shakespeare’s contemporaries:** Reading plays by other Elizabethan playwrights, such as Christopher Marlowe and Ben Jonson, can help you understand Shakespeare’s work in its historical context.
* **Don’t be afraid to reread plays:** You’ll often notice new things each time you reread a play. Rereading a play can deepen your understanding and appreciation of it.

## Step 10: Embrace the Experience (Enjoy the Ride!)

Reading Shakespeare should be an enjoyable experience. Don’t get so caught up in trying to understand every single word that you forget to appreciate the beauty and brilliance of his writing. Let yourself be transported to another time and place, and allow yourself to be moved by the power of his words.

* **Read at your own pace:** Don’t feel pressured to read Shakespeare quickly. Take your time and savor the experience.
* **Find a quiet place to read:** Choose a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. This will help you focus on the text and immerse yourself in the story.
* **Read when you’re feeling relaxed and alert:** Don’t try to read Shakespeare when you’re tired or stressed. You’ll be more likely to understand the text if you’re feeling relaxed and alert.
* **Remember that Shakespeare is for everyone.** Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not smart enough or educated enough to read Shakespeare. With a little patience and effort, anyone can enjoy the works of the Bard.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking the treasures of Shakespeare. So, grab a play, open your mind, and prepare to be transported to a world of unforgettable characters, timeless stories, and breathtaking language. Happy reading!