Though it may be hard to see now, the works of William Shakespeare have had a big impact on people here at Littleton High School. Between this year’s school play and the dramas being read in Language Arts classes, Shakespeare is all around students and their lives.
Ms. Millicent Ambroggio shared her thoughts about teaching the subject to her own students. She has already touched on some Romeo and Juliet with her AP Literature class, and later in the year she plans on teaching Macbeth, Julius Caesar, and more. She teaches Shakespeare to all of her classes because of how powerful it is, even in the 21st century. She loves teaching Romeo and Juliet and Macbeth the most. Ambroggio said that Macbeth is interesting because of the power dynamics between men and women, and the idea of fate.
“Who knows what’s best for you? Is it always someone who’s older and wiser? When do you learn to trust yourself or fight for your own opinions?” Ambroggio says.
Another person who has a passion for Shakespeare is our theater teacher, Ms. Talia Liccardello. Liccardello has been interested in Shakespeare since her years in high school, and her favorite play of his works is Macbeth.
“I just thought it was time,” says Liccardello, regarding the play. Though A Midsummer Night’s Dream isn’t her favorite, she still really likes it.
“Shakespeare creates very well-written plays, with exciting plots,” she says. Liccardello loves Shakespeare a lot, and thinks that if you don’t, you’re mistaken. If you don’t enjoy him, maybe give it another go, and see what you think!
In summary, the works of Shakespeare have impacted a lot of people at our school, and though they may have little details, they stay fierce as the years go by. The stories and themes are still relevant to this day because of how powerfully written they were. As the wise man once said, “Take pains, be perfect, adieu.”
