Teaching and Learning Shakespeare through Theatre-based Practice

The study of Shakespeare can contribute to equipping young people for the challenges of an uncertain future by inviting in their prior knowledge, combining intellectual, social, and emotional learning, and developing a critical perspective on cultural inheritance. Theatre-based practice can open up the possibilities of Shakespeare study in the classroom, empowering Shakespeare workers to interact critically, creatively, and collaboratively with Shakespeare as a living artist.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Shakespeare's study holds immense value in equipping young people for the challenges of an uncertain future. By delving into his profound works, students can gain a deeper understanding of human nature, societal issues, and the complexities of the world. Here are some key ways in which Shakespeare's education can contribute to their preparedness:

Meaningful Engagement: Shakespeare's texts are rich in symbolism, metaphor, and themes that can be interpreted and analyzed from multiple perspectives. By inviting students to bring their prior knowledge, experiences, and ideas to the table, educators can facilitate meaningful engagement and help students connect with the texts on a personal level.

Intellectual Development: Shakespeare's plays are renowned for their complex language, intricate plotlines, and profound philosophical and ethical questions. Studying Shakespeare encourages students to develop critical thinking skills, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. He encourages students to think critically about the characters, themes, and societal issues presented in the plays, and to engage in lively discussions and debates.

Social and Emotional Learning: Shakespeare's plays explore a wide range of social and emotional themes, including love, friendship, loyalty, jealousy, power, and prejudice. By engaging with these themes, students can develop empathy, compassion, and social skills that are essential for building healthy relationships and navigating complex social situations.

Cultural Heritage: Shakespeare's plays are a rich tapestry of British culture, history, and society. Studying Shakespeare helps students gain a deeper appreciation for their cultural heritage and its influence on the world. He encourages students to explore the historical context of the plays, the social and political issues of the time, and the cultural values and beliefs that shaped them.

Theatre-Based Practice: Theatre-based approaches to Shakespeare study offer a unique and engaging way to engage students with the texts. Through acting, directing, and improvisation, students can bring the characters to life, understand the nuances of the language, and develop a deeper appreciation for the theatricality of the plays.

In-Classroom Success: Many teachers have successfully embedded theatre-based approaches to Shakespeare in their classrooms. In this book, we explore the core principles and practices of leaders and practitioners from various Shakespeare institutions, including the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespe's Globe, the Folger, and the Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation.

Part One: Consolidating Recent Developments

In this part, the authors consolidate recent developments in the field of Shakespeare education and engage in a lively dialogue with core questions of Shakespeare's place in the classroom. They explore the benefits of theatre-based practice, the challenges of implementing the implementation, and the potential barriers to its success.

Part Two: Curating Interviews with Leaders.

In this part, the authors curate a series of interviews with leaders and practitioners from the above and other Shakespeare institutions, exploring their core principles and practices. They discuss the importance of collaboration, the role.

Part Three: Chapters from and About Classroom Teachers.

In this part, the authors present chapters from and about classroom teachers, who share their experiences of successfully embedding theatre-based approaches to Shakespeare in their own diverse contexts. They discuss the impact of these approaches on student engagement, academic achievement, and cultural understanding.

In conclusion, Shakespeare's study holds immense value in equipping young people for the challenges of an uncertain future. By engaging with his profound works, students can gain a deeper understanding of human nature, societal issues, and the complexities of the world. Through meaningful engagement, intellectual development, social and emotional learning, cultural heritage, theatre-based practice, and in-classroom success, Shakespeare educators can help students develop critical thinking skills, analytical reasoning.

Weight: 482g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350292055