Having studied it for a few years a long time ago
I can see the appeal when it's written down - I'm talking about some of the soliloquies here mainly from the tragedies but also from some of the comedies and history plays - they're real poetry and talk about human issues that are still very relevant now.

However, some performances are utter crap.

In many respects Shakespeare is a bit like Chaucer inasmuch as our language now has moved on so far that it makes it difficult to understand what is being said.

Chaucer, once translated, is absolutely filthy and hilarious. Pretty much everyone is aware of the Miller's tale but even things like the Nun's Priest's tale with all the chicken shenanigans is very funny and very earthy.

I agree with what others have said - a good deal of it is down to how it's taught...but that's the same of pretty much any subject.

Dull teacher, dull subject.
( chickenlady b3ta's very own Elizabeth Taylor, Fri 11 Jul 2008, 10:48, Reply)