The Shakespeare Conference: SHK 10.0094  Tuesday, 19 January 1999.

From:           Heather Bailie <
 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
 >
Date:           Friday, 15 Jan 1999 22:36:30 -0800
Subject:        Beginning Shakespeare Student Needs Help

I have been following this list for sometime now, but have never
responded.  I hope I am doing this right.  Well, the reason for my
writing is that I am currently taking an introductory Shakespeare course
at my community college and I had a few questions about how I should go
about my studies.  I have read Shakespeare before, but never actually
studied his works.  I have no trouble with plot, but as far as
everything else goes, I am lost.  I have read some commentary and
criticism on his works, but I hate relying on other people's opinions,
how do I come up with my own?  What sort of things should I think about
while I am reading?  How can I come up with a theme?  What should I
consider when analyzing characters, setting, etc.?  My professor
mentioned poetry and prose and said we should pay very close attention
to prose verses.  How do I distinguish the two?

I welcome any other suggestions you may have.

Thank you so much,
Heather B.