The RGS Gazette The Arts 26 Issue 12 July 2024 to more straightforward syntax. These barriers render Shakespeare’s texts as often inaccessible, necessitating annotated editions or adaptions to bridge the linguistic chasm. Shakespeare’s popularity stems from his ambitious plays, with one in eight Americans recognising ‘to be, or not to be’. "These barriers render Shakespeare's texts as often inaccessible" However, does Shakespeare deserve this popularity? His relevance in modern society is being increasingly questioned, because of his works failing with contemporary audiences. The archaic language and historical settings can make his plays difficult to relate to, overshadowing the universal themes he explores. Today’s readers and theatregoers seek literature that reflects current realities and diverse experiences. For instance, novels like George Orwell’s '1984' and Margaret Atwood’s 'The Handmaid’s Tale' provide poignant commentaries on modern political issues and societal fears. These works speak directly to contemporary anxieties about surveillance and authoritarianism, making them more impactful and pertinent to today’s society than Shakespeare’s centuries old dramas Finally, the primary reason for my reevaluation of Shakespeare stems from a concern that impacts not only me and my peers but almost 100% of secondary school students across England. Ironically enough, the souldestroying totalitarian regimes situated at the heart of Orwell’s and Atwood’s works precisely reflect what Shakespeare feels like for myself and my peers today. Shakespeare oppresses our curriculum and despite how much we don’t want to study him, we have to. Modern literature offers equally, if not more, rich educational opportunities. Contemporary texts such as 'The Kite Runner' and 'The Hunger Games' address themes of personal growth, societal conflict, and moral dilemmas in ways that can be understood and can engage students more effectively. A survey by the National Endowment for the Arts found that only 28% of secondary/high school students find Shakespeare’s works engaging. This is extremely low considering Shakespeare is renowned for being one of the best playwrights to walk to earth, no? Moreover, incorporating more diverse and contemporary texts can cater to a variety of interests and provide relevant cultural insights. By balancing our studies with more modern and classic works, future classrooms will foster a more engaging and inclusive learning environment. I am not trying to simply slander Shakespeare and his works, but rather to spur exploration into the endless inventory of enjoyable books, plays and dramas, and to let my audience know that Shakespeare is not the only good playwright out there. 'Hamlet' (1996)' Film adaptation of 'The Hunger Games' (2012) Portrait of William Shakespeare (1610)
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