EXPLORING SHAKESPEARE!

Exploring Shakespeare: A Journey into his world with 1st & 2nd Baccalaureate students.

In an engaging and thought-provoking activity, students from both 1st & 2nd Baccalaureate had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the life and works of William Shakespeare. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, film viewings, and comparisons with modern works, students explored the enduring legacy of the renowned playwright and how his themes continue to resonate in today's world.

1st Baccalaureate students undertook a comprehensive study of Shakespeare’s life, his genres, and his influence on theatre and the use of the English language. The class focused on understanding the historical context in which Shakespeare wrote his plays, his approach to different genres, and the impact he had on the development of modern theatre. Students explored Shakespeare’s ability to weave timeless themes like love, grief, treason, jealousy, and family matters into his works, creating characters whose struggles and emotions still feel deeply relevant.

A key part of their learning experience involved watching Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of Hamlet. Through this viewing, students gained a visual and emotional understanding of the play, observing the complexities of its characters and themes. The class used the film to compare the various issues addressed in Hamlet with other literary works they had studied. One notable comparison was with The Blood of the Giants, a book from Fiction Express that students had read during the term. In this comparative analysis, students noted the similarities and differences in how both works tackled themes like betrayal, loyalty, family conflict, and personal turmoil. The connection between Hamlet and The Blood of the Giants allowed students to see how these age-old themes are still portrayed in contemporary literature.

Meanwhile, 2nd Baccalaureate students focused on applying their understanding of Shakespeare to practice key exam skills for their upcoming Selectivitat exams. They studied Shakespeare’s biography in depth, aiming to craft well-informed essays about the playwright’s life and work. In addition, they practiced reviewing Shakespeare’s plays and works in the formal format required for their exams, learning how to analyse and critique his contributions to literature in a structured and academic way.

The class also watched videos exploring the life and legacy of Shakespeare, providing insight into the man behind the plays and the era in which he lived. Students discussed how his works have influenced modern literature, theatre, and culture, drawing parallels between his ideas and those in contemporary society. They explored how themes from Shakespeare’s plays, like power struggles, human flaws, and societal expectations, continue to shape modern narratives in film, literature, and everyday life.

Throughout both activities, the students exhibited a clear interest in Shakespeare's works and the anecdotes surrounding his life. They were fascinated not only by his genius as a playwright but also by the mystery and intrigue that often surrounds his personal life. The stories of his time in London, his interactions with other playwrights, and the controversies over his works added an element of excitement to their studies.

By the end of these activities, students from both 1st & 2nd Baccalaureate had gained a more profound understanding of Shakespeare’s work and its relevance to the modern world. Whether it was through studying the complexities of Hamlet or preparing for their Selectivitat exams, they all appreciated the enduring nature of Shakespeare’s insights into human nature. The activity not only brought Shakespeare's works to life in new and engaging ways but also highlighted the power of literature to bridge the past and present, showing how his exploration of universal themes continues to influence and inspire.