Should Shakespeare Be Taught In Schools

One of the greatest controversies in today’s schools is deciding whether or not to integrate Shakespeare into the classroom setting. It should be taught because it is productive, as well as having very beneficial outcomes which are excellent for students. Ms. Busbiber believes “that our students should be excited about what they read — and that may often mean that we need to find the time to let them choose their own literature,” (“The Washington Post”). Reasons to view Shakespearean works in a positive light are that they not only require students to “be knowledgeable about the London theatre in Shakespeare’s time: the plays, actors, and wider culture,” (“Irish Times”), but also expand a person’s way to problem-solve. Shakespeare is notorious

for being one of the most complex English writers in the world. Some may say they don’t want to utilize his text due to the differing interests in literature while also not wanting to use it because it is grammatically incorrect. We must recognize that Shakespeare is from a different time period, “as chronicler of life as he saw it 450 years ago,” (“The Washington Post”). He came before grammar was a thing, so we shouldn’t have the right to judge. In addition, not all teachers believe that Shakespeare is an adequate writer and that it’s pointless to have their students read his literature. However, if it’s able to be comprehended by high schoolers, they will have no issue understanding other texts that are equally challenging. Professor Danielle Clarke, of UCD’s English department, explains,“many teachers and students still devote themselves to the hard – and ultimately solitary – experience of reading complex texts,” (“Irish Times”). Given these points, Shakespeare should be read by high schoolers to improve their understanding of English literature.