The document discusses reasons for studying the works of William Shakespeare. It notes that apart from it being a school requirement, Shakespeare's plays and poems deal with universal themes of human nature that still resonate today. These themes include common experiences, compelling characters, and stories that highlight the human condition. Specifically, Shakespeare introduced over 135 common expressions still used today and explored ideas like love, compassion, and the complexities of human psychology through his works.

1. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616
Why do we learn and study the
works of William Shakespeare,
a 16th Century English
playwright and poet?
Apart from a 'requirement' to
study Shakespeare, what
positive reasons can you think
of to study Shakespeare?
www.englishabc.co.uk 2014

2. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616
'The ideas, themes and issues
of human nature described in
his works have a resonance, a
connection with the lives led by
people today!'
A possible reason?
Here is a list of ideas, themes and issues
that are written about by Shakespeare...?

3. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616

4. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616
Common expressions, clichés, were
Shakespeare's creations
Compelling characters
Great stories
Highlighting human experience

5. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616
Common expressions, clichés, were
Shakespeare's creations – over 135
examples
•A fool’s paradise – an experience of happiness based
on false hope - Romeo & Juliet
•All of a sudden - suddenly – The Taming of the Shrew
•A sorry sight – something or someone of an untidy
appearance - Macbeth
•Love is blind – The Merchant of Venice, Henry V, and other plays
•Lie low – keeping out of sight, hiding – Much Ado About Nothing
•Milk of human kindness – care, compassion for others –
Macbeth

6. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616

7. William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616William Shakespeare - 1564 - 1616