William Shakespeare, the iconic playwright and poet, was perhaps the most important figure in the development of English literature and language.
The recent podcast I released, titled “How Many English Words Did Shakespeare Invent?”, prompted many of you to reach out and ask about how to read Shakespeare in English.
This article is going to give you a few quick tips and then recommend some versions of Shakespeare that have been created to make it easier to read. These versions included Graded Readers specifically aimed at English learners and parallel texts with the original on one side and plain English on the other!
I’ve also included affiliate links – you buy a book I might get a little money!
Table of Contents
How to Read and Understand Shakespeare as a Non-Native English Speaker?
- Start with a Modern Translation: Begin by reading a modern translation or a version with side-by-side annotations. This can provide you with a clearer understanding of the language and help you grasp the meaning behind the words.
- Watch Performances: Watch live performances or film adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays. Seeing the language in action can make it easier to comprehend the context, emotions, and overall storyline.
- Read Aloud: Shakespeare’s works were written to be performed, so reading them aloud can help you catch the rhythm, intonation, and flow of the language. This can enhance your understanding of the text.
- Use Annotated Editions: Choose editions of Shakespeare’s plays that have explanatory notes and annotations. These editions often provide explanations of archaic words, phrases, and cultural references, aiding in comprehension.
- Understand the Plot First: Before delving into the intricacies of the language, make sure you have a solid understanding of the plot. Knowing the basic storyline will help you follow the dialogue more easily.
- Consult Resources: Don’t hesitate to use dictionaries, language guides, or online resources to look up unfamiliar words or phrases. This can greatly improve your understanding of the language.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Shakespeare’s language may initially seem daunting, but with patience and persistence, you’ll become more accustomed to the style. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t understand everything at first.
Romeo and Juliet
“Romeo and Juliet” is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that unfolds in Verona, Italy. The story revolves around the passionate love affair between Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, two young individuals from feuding families. Despite the intense rivalry, Romeo and Juliet secretly marry, hoping to unite their families. However, a series of unfortunate events, misunderstandings, and the deep-seated enmity between their households lead to a tragic end.
Romeo and Juliet (No Fear Shakespeare)
No Fear Shakespeare gives you the complete text of Romeo and Juliet on the left-hand page, side-by-side with an easy-to-understand translation on the right. Perfect for higher level English learners!
Level 3: Romeo and Juliet (Pearson English Graded Readers)
This is a graded reader specifically for English learners. Level 3 include 1200 headwords and is suitable for pre-intermediate English learners.
Macbeth
“Macbeth” tells the story of a Scottish nobleman, Macbeth, who lets ambition drive him to murder the king and take the throne. Influenced by supernatural predictions and his wife, Macbeth’s actions lead to a downward spiral of guilt, paranoia, and more killings. The play explores themes of unchecked ambition and the consequences of immoral choices, ultimately portraying the tragic outcome of Macbeth’s relentless pursuit of power.
Macbeth (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Level 4: Macbeth KPF with Integrated Audio (Pearson English Graded Readers)
This is a graded reader specifically for English learners. Level 4 includes around 1700 headwords and is suitable for intermediate English learners.
Hamlet
“Hamlet,” a renowned tragedy by William Shakespeare, centres on Prince Hamlet of Denmark. After his father’s sudden death and his mother’s hasty remarriage to his uncle, Hamlet is haunted by a ghost revealing foul play. As he seeks to uncover the truth, Hamlet grapples with internal conflict, feigned madness, and a string of tragic events.
Hamlet (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Level 3: Hamlet KPF with Integrated Audio (Pearson English Graded Readers)
This is a graded reader specifically for English learners. Level 3 includes around 1200 headwords and is suitable for pre-intermediate English learners.
King Lear
“King Lear” is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that revolves around the aging King Lear’s decision to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their professions of love for him. Misled by flattery, Lear faces betrayal and tragedy as his daughters reveal their true nature.
King Lear (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Level 3: King Lear KPF with Integrated Audio (Pearson English Graded Readers)
This is a graded reader specifically for English learners. Level 3 includes around 1200 headwords and is suitable for pre-intermediate English learners.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a delightful comedy by William Shakespeare set in a magical forest. The story intertwines the romantic misadventures of four young lovers, the quarrels of the Fairy King and Queen, Oberon and Titania, and the humorous antics of a group of amateur actors.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Level 3: A Midsummer Night’s Dream KPF with Integrated Audio (Pearson English Graded Readers)
This is a graded reader specifically for English learners. Level 3 includes around 1200 headwords and is suitable for intermediate English learners.
Othello
“Othello” is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that unfolds in Venice and Cyprus. The story revolves around Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, and his ensign, Iago. Manipulated by Iago’s deceitful schemes, Othello becomes consumed by jealousy, suspecting his wife, Desdemona, of infidelity.
Othello (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Level 3: Othello (Pearson English Graded Readers)
This is a graded reader specifically for English learners. Level 3 includes around 1200 headwords and is suitable for pre-intermediate English learners.
Julius Caesar
“Julius Caesar” is a historical tragedy by William Shakespeare set in ancient Rome. The play centres around the political conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar, a powerful Roman leader, driven by concerns about his growing ambition. The narrative follows the conspirators, including Brutus and Cassius, and their fatal decision to murder Caesar for what they believe is the greater good of Rome.
Julius Caesar (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
The Tempest
“The Tempest” is a magical play by William Shakespeare set on a remote island. The story revolves around Prospero, a betrayed Duke of Milan, who uses his magical powers to create a tempest, stranding his enemies on the island. Among the shipwrecked are his usurping brother Antonio and the King of Naples. As the characters navigate the enchanted island, themes of forgiveness, revenge, and the transformative power of art emerge.
The Tempest (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Twelfth Night
“Twelfth Night” is a lively and comedic play by William Shakespeare. Set in Illyria, the story revolves around the twins Viola and Sebastian, who are separated in a shipwreck. Viola, disguised as a young man named Cesario, serves Duke Orsino, who is in love with Lady Olivia. However, Olivia falls for Cesario, creating a web of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements.
Twelfth Night (No Fear Shakespeare)
- The complete text of the original play
- A line-by-line translation that puts the words into everyday language
- A complete list of characters, with descriptions
- Plenty of helpful commentary
Are you going to read one of these version of Shakespeare’s plays? Leave a comment and let me know!
Leave a Reply