Reading Practice: Who Was William Shakespeare?

 

Read the attached article about William Shakespeare. Then take a quiz.

 Reading Practice: Who Was William Shakespeare?


Or

Read a book about William Shakespeare, such as:

 

Several inspirational quotes by William Shakespeare:

1.     "To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man." (From "Hamlet")

    • Explanation: This quote, spoken by Polonius, advises one to be honest and true to oneself. It suggests that by being authentic, one naturally acts with integrity towards others. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of self-honesty and authenticity.

2.     "All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players." (From "As You Like It")

    • Explanation: This famous line is from Jaques’ monologue. It compares the world to a stage and life to a play, and suggests that our roles and actions are part of a larger performance. It's a reflection on the roles we play in life and how life itself unfolds like a drama.

3.     "What’s past is prologue." (From "The Tempest")

    • Explanation: These words are spoken by Antonio, suggesting that everything that has happened in the past sets the context for the present. It's often interpreted as an encouragement to learn from the past and use it as a foundation for future actions.

4.     "Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once." (From "Julius Caesar")

    • Explanation: Spoken by Caesar, this quote reflects on bravery and fear. It suggests that a coward experiences the fear of death multiple times, while a brave person faces death only once. It's a call to bravery and facing one's fears head-on.

5.     "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings." (From "Julius Caesar")

    • Explanation: Cassius says this to Brutus, arguing that their low status is not due to fate but to their own lack of assertiveness. It emphasizes the role of personal responsibility in shaping one's destiny.

6.     "We know what we are, but know not what we may be." (From "Hamlet")

    • Explanation: This line, spoken by Ophelia, touches on the potential within each person. It suggests that while we may understand our current selves, our future potential remains unknown and full of possibilities.

7.     "This above all: to thine own self be true." (From "Hamlet")

    • Explanation: Another quote from Polonius, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself above all else. It underscores the value of authenticity and integrity.

8.     "Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt." (From "Measure for Measure")

    • Explanation: These words speak to the paralyzing effect of doubt. It suggests that by giving in to our fears and doubts, we may miss out on great opportunities.