Which Shakespeare Play Should You Start With?

Shakespeare's works are a treasure trove of literature, but jumping into his plays can be daunting for beginners. The language is often rich and poetic, yet some of his plays can be dense and complex. If you're new to Shakespeare, it's essential to start with plays that are accessible, engaging, and have a compelling story. Here are some recommended plays to begin your literary journey.

The Best Shakespeare Plays for Beginners

Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet is one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, and it's also one of the easiest to follow and understand, making it an excellent starting point. The story of young lovers who fall in love despite familial enmity is familiar to many, and the language isn't as challenging as some of Shakespeare’s other works. There are several modern adaptations that can help you get a feel for the story—West Side Story, for example, presents the tale in a contemporary setting, making it easier to follow the plot and characters. Keep in mind that the play can get a bit 'raunchy' at times, especially with Mercutio’s scenes.

A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream is one of Shakespeare’s most popular and widely performed plays. This whimsical and romantic comedy is relatively straightforward, even with the magical elements involved. You can enjoy it by watching movie adaptations such as A Midsummer Night's Dream (2017), A Midsummer Night's Rave (2002), Were the World Mine (2008), or The Apartment (1996). These modern interpretations make the language and plot easier to grasp.

Macbeth

Macbeth is Shakespeare’s shortest tragedy, making it a great choice for beginners. The plot is relatively simple, involving a nobleman who is tricked into committing murder to become king, and its themes are straightforward. Movie adaptations, such as Throne of Blood (1957), Men of Respect (1990), and the 1948, 1971, and 1978 versions of Macbeth, can help you understand the story better. Additionally, the animated film The Lion King offers a fun and accessible retelling of the play.

Much Ado About Nothing

Much Ado About Nothing has a more complex plot, but it is still accessible to nearly everyone. The story involves a mix of love, deception, and revenge, and it's a classic tale of misunderstandings and eventual reconciliation. My son’s high school performance of the play proved that even younger audiences could understand and enjoy the story. Watching a performance of Twelfth Night can help you get a feel for the language and story, and the Trevor Nunn film starring Ben Kingsley and Imogen Stubbs is a highly recommended adaptation.

Twelfth Night

Twelfth Night has a more complex plot than Much Ado About Nothing, but the characters are equally charm and the language can be a bit challenging. However, if you enjoyed Much Ado About Nothing, you will likely appreciate the quick wit and rich characterization of Twelfth Night. Watching the Trevor Nunn film, which starred Ben Kingsley, Imogen Stubbs, Nigel Hawthorne, and Helena Bonham-Carter, is highly recommended. The film captures the buoyant and often hilarious nature of the play.

Reading and Watching Combination

Reading a play can be challenging, especially when you’re new to Elizabethan English. Coupling your reading with watching a good performance can greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the text. Many films offer comprehensive interpretations, providing context and insight into the play’s themes and language. For instance, Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of Hamlet uses the full text and is a very accessible performance.

Remember, the key is to start with a play that is not only enjoyable but also accessible. From the romantic tragedy of Romeo and Juliet to the comedic delight of A Midsummer Night's Dream, there is a wealth of Shakespearean plays to choose from. Once you find a play that grabs your interest, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying his work.