Shakespeare’s plays are staples of the classroom. Yet too often they are taught as antiquated works of literature with little reference to their theatrical life and enduringhuman themes. Applying the methodologies of the holistic education model to the study of four Shakespearean plays— Othello,The Tempest, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Measure for Measure—Holistic Shakespeare offers lively theater-based activities to complement traditional analytical exercises. In keeping with the aims of holistic education, each play is studied in relation to a particular social or ethical topic addressed in the work.

 

Despite abundant scholarly works in the field of Shakespeare studies, few texts combine analytical and creative learning methodologies—and none before has specifically applied the principles of holistic education to the topic. Accessible to both teachers and learners, this book will be an essential tool for making Shakespeare come to life in the classroom.

Debra Charlton is director of graduate studies in theater at Texas State University.