Teaching Shakespeare can be a challenging task, but with the help of engaging and educational videos, it becomes much easier to captivate students’ interest and enhance their understanding of his timeless works. In this article, we will explore some of our favorite videos that effectively teach Shakespearean plays.

1. Shakespeare Uncovered: This PBS documentary series delves deep into the world of Shakespearean plays, providing insights into their themes, plotlines, and characters. Each episode focuses on a specific play and includes commentary from renowned Shakespeare scholars and actors. The series offers a great resource for teachers looking to introduce their students to Shakespeare in an engaging and informative way.

2. The BBC Shakespeare Collection: This extensive collection features high-quality productions of Shakespearean plays performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company. These adaptations maintain the antiquity and richness of the original plays while making them accessible to modern-day audiences. Students can benefit from watching these performances as they bring the intricacies of Shakespeare’s language and storytelling to life.

3. Shakespeare Animated Tales: This animated series presents Shakespeare’s plays in a visually appealing and entertaining format. While the animations simplify the language and condense the plots, they retain the essence of the original stories. This makes them particularly suitable for younger students or those who may find the language barrier intimidating.

4. Globe On Screen: The Globe Theatre in London is renowned for its authentic Shakespearean productions. The Globe On Screen series brings these performances to the screen, allowing students to experience the plays as they were meant to be seen. This collection showcases exceptional acting talent and offers a unique opportunity for students to witness the magic of live Shakespearean theater.

5. Ted-Ed Shakespeare: The Ted-Ed educational platform features a variety of animated videos that delve into different aspects of Shakespeare’s works. These videos explore themes, characters, and historical contexts, making them an excellent supplementary resource for classroom discussions and individual study.

When incorporating videos into your Shakespeare lessons, it is essential to complement them with classroom discussions, activities, and assessments. Encourage students to analyze the videos, compare them to the original texts, and discuss the interpretations presented. Additionally, ensure that the videos chosen align with the age and proficiency level of your students.

By utilizing these captivating and educational videos, teachers can make Shakespeare more accessible and enjoyable for their students. The power of visual storytelling combined with the timeless beauty of Shakespeare’s works will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of Shakespeare enthusiasts.