William Shakespeare died over 400 years ago. He wrote his plays in a form of English that can be difficult for modern readers to understand. So why do we still study him? Why are h
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-07-16
Introduction
William Shakespeare died over 400 years ago. He wrote his plays in a form of English that can be difficult for modern readers to understand. So why do we still study him? Why are his plays still performed in thousands of theatres around the world every year? The answer is simple: Shakespeare remains one of the most relevant and insightful writers in history. His profound understanding of the human condition, his timeless themes, and his masterful use of language ensure that his work continues to resonate with audiences centuries after his death. This article will explore the key reasons for Shakespeare's enduring relevance.
Learning objectives
After reading this article, you should be able to:
- Explain why Shakespeare is still considered a culturally significant figure.
- Identify the timeless themes in Shakespeare's plays that are still relevant today.
- Analyse Shakespeare's contribution to the development of the English language.
- Describe how modern adaptations of Shakespeare's plays demonstrate their continued relevance.
- Understand his genius for creating complex and psychologically realistic characters.
The Master of Human Psychology
Shakespeare's greatest genius lies in his creation of characters. His characters are not simple, one-dimensional figures; they are deeply complex, contradictory, and psychologically realistic. They feel incredibly human. We recognise ourselves and the people we know in their struggles. …