If you are a student of Literature, you can study William Shakespeare from high school up to doctorate level. This is because Shakespeare left a huge body of literary works and these books are still relevant today. Shakespeare was an authority during his lifetime. He was a poet, dramatist and an actor but he made his name as a writer. This English man wrote some of the best plays the world has ever seen and this is why he remains a dominant figure in world literature many years after his death. Students who are looking for William Shakespeare notes should look for reputable websites that can offer them the following things.
Biographical Notes
If you are studying Shakespearean Literature, it makes sense to study the biography of William Shakespeare because this will give you a strong background. Once you have biographical notes on this important writer, you will understand his mood, tone, and themes. This will make it easier for you to appreciate his work and you will pass your exam easily.
Characterization
Notes on Shakespeare’s works should include characterization because this writer created some of the most authentic characters in world literature. His plays were full of interesting and exciting characters. These colorful characters made his comedies, and tragedies come alive. Shakespeare’s works had round characters, flat characters, foils, and everything else in between.
Plot
In literature, the plot is the outline of events in play or novel. These incidents are arranged in sequential order. Usually, the plot starts with rising action and gets to the climax, which is the point of highest suspense in the literary work. After the climax, the next stage is the falling action and then the denouement. A great teacher of Shakespearean literature will take time to teach the rudiments of this important element and the significance of certain actions in the work.
Themes
In literature, the theme is the central idea of a literary work. In William Shakespeare’s works, it is possible to have a central theme and a few minor themes. It is also possible for Shakespeare’s works to have a number of leitmotifs that run through the whole book. All these things add to the beauty and literary merit of William Shakespeare’s works.
Setting
In simple English, setting refers to the time and place within a literary work. Shakespeare’s plays were set in many different locations. “Macbeth” was set in Scotland, the “Merchant of Venice” in Venice and “Twelfth Night” was set in Illyria.
William Shakespeare was a great writer and this is why his work is still relevant today. He was a great dramatist, an excellent poet, and a competent actor.
