Reading Macbeth

It is impossible to overstate the importance of Shakespeare’s work. It is clever, witty, beautiful, inspirational, funny, deep, dramatic, and more. Shakespeare's work has inspired students and scholars for centuries, because it also tells us so much about life, love, and human nature. When we study Shakespeare, we find that human beings haven’t really changed all that much over the past several hundred years.

Shakespeare is different from any other piece of literature, in that it requires some engagement and active participation. Since Shakespeare never published his own plays, it is safe to say that they were never meant to be read - only heard.  Reading Shakespeare out loud gives the reader a better sense of context and meaning.  When we actually say the words out loud, they start to “click.” 

Today, our drama students attended a second workshop to read Shakespeare's Macbeth.  It was a major undertaking!  With time out to discuss themes and interpretation, movement and motivation, and the addition of some fun properties, they were able to read just over half of the play.  From the smiles on their faces, one can deduct that they were at least enjoying the challenge!  The pictures were provided by one of our students, Miranda Joebgen.  Her blog, Theater, contains more pictures and updates on this production as well as many others!

Shakespeare really makes more sense when we see the words come to life on stage. You won’t believe how much expressions and movements of the actors can demystify Shakespeare’s beautiful but complex prose.
 
On Monday, the drama classes at MHFA will be attending Macbeth at the Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier.  For two weeks we have been studying this great piece of literature, but soon they will see Macbeth come to life!

For more information on reading Shakespeare, visit the following links:

Reading Shakespeare's Language

Reading Shakespeare's Plays

Shakespeare Reading Tips

Reading Shakespeare Has Dramatic Effect On Human Brain