William Shakespeare wrote his last pieces of work around 1613 and for almost 200 years the works of Shakespeare have been taught in American school systems. His plays are taught to students to show how words and literary devices can convey themes. As well as to help students  better understand more complex writing and critical thinking as it relates to literature. However, in the 400 years since his work was published other authors have been discovered and can be used to teach the same ideas. So, should Shakespeare still be taught in school or are there more modern works that should be taught instead?

At Pentucket Regional School District students read a variety of Shakespeare’s plays, sonnets, and poems; including A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo And Juliet, Julius Caesar, Macbeth, and more. These same students also read The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Animal Farm by George Orwell, more modern works.

The students interviewed had very strong opinions on which they prefer and why they felt one was more effective for their learning.

When talking about reading A Midsummer Night’s Dream with freshman Alice Diguseppe she states, “I believe that it d helped me gain a better understanding of more complex texts, but more modern works could also achieve this.” When asked if she believes Shakespeare should be taught as much as he is in schools she responded, “Due to the fact that we read 3 Shakespeare Plays in 3 years, I believe we should read less. We should definitely still keep at least one, but I do believe he should have less of an impact on the whole curriculum.” 

Junior Arthur Craig agrees with this stating “It was pretty fun [to read Shakespeare] although not instrumental to my education.” 

In contrast, Pentucket teacher Mrs. Ducolon, believes that reading Shakespeare’s works is an important part of understanding the power of his plays. “My students seem hesitant at first when reading Shakespeare.  That hesitancy can translate into not liking the play.  I believe they end up liking it as they get more comfortable with the language.” Ms. Ducolon agrees more modern works could also achieve the same effect saying, “I think his work holds up, and I love to teach it.  However, I think newer texts can be more effective, especially with lower level readers.”

Shakespeare’s role in our curriculum should not be lessened. His work introduces readers to new types of literature in ways newer pieces of writing do not. Regardless, this topic still stands up for debate and it would seem there is no right or wrong answer.