Write a letter to a friend or (possibly imaginary) younger sibling, explaining what makes Shakespeare a great playwright. You must devote at least one paragraph to each of three of the following subjects:
In each paragraph, quote the play at least twice, and explain carefully how each quotation illustrates your point.
Here’s part of a sample paper:
Date
Dear Nate,
I know you haven’t read much Shakespeare, but let me encourage you. It sure is hard to read his plays, but once you get the hang of them, they are the best things in the world to read. Trust me. I just finished reading Twelfth Night in class with my friends, and I had a great time.
One of my favorite things about reading Shakespeare is how funny he is. For instance, in Twelfth Night, he creates a character named Sir Andrew who is so stupid that he thinks he is complimenting Maria when he calls her a “fair shrew” (1.3.46). A shrew, of course, is a rodent, and in Shakespeare’s time it was a very rude term for a woman. It is hilarious to see Andrew make a fool of himself. It is also funny to see the ridiculous situations Shakespeare creates through situational comedy. When Viola realizes, for example, that her disguise has caused Olivia to fall in love with her, she asks, “How will this fadge? / …As I am man, / My state is desperate for my master’s love; / As I am woman... / What thriftless sighs shall poor Olivia breathe” (2.2.33-39). Viola is dressed as a man, so she can never get the love she wants from Orsino; and since Viola is only dressed as a man, Olivia will never get the love she wants either. We can only laugh, and wait for time to untangle these impossible circumstances.
Two more paragraphs detailing what makes Shakespeare so great.
A conclusion, recommending what plays your sibling might enjoy…
Sincerely,
signature
Your name