The Complete Works of Shakespeare are staring at me...
20 months ago
I want to find my favorite works, besides the ones I read and dissected past the point of enjoyment in high school.
How to read more shakespeare
It made me
pleasantly surprised 
"I resumed my adventures in Shakespeare with Henry VI, Part One, then began to read Richard II. "
How I did it: I bought a few pocket paperback editions and began taking them, one at a time, to work with me, reading on breaks, and on days off of work. Also, I visited the public library from time to time, and checked out guides on how to read and interpret the ones I was reading.
I realized that I should have started with Richard II first, so I put aside Henry VI and have taken up Richard II.
Lessons & tips: Carry the pocket edition with you every where you go, and keep at it.
Read out loud. You get the rhythm and flavour of the language and the reading of it reinforces your attention.
Take a break and watch the classic films, such as the ones put on by Turner Classic Movies channel.
Resources: The Public Library
Borders Books
Barnes and Noble
Turner Classic Movie Channel
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Entries
done.
22 months ago
I’m done. No more of the bard. I have no more time. I finished his comedies, but couldn’t read the tragedies. I tried, Lord I tried. too somber. I’m done.
The Book!
2 years ago
I went to a small book store a few towns north thinking I would have to order a copy of the Complete Works of William Shakespeare, but to my surprise there were a couple to choose from! I went for the cheaper one and went merrily home. I have some shorter, easier reads that I’d like to finish before I tackle Othello or A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream, but it won’t be long! It’s really hard to dive into one of the plays without knowing anything about them. I tried, but got really lost. I’ll do some research before I try again. Here’s a website if you don’t feel like buying the hard copy: http://shakespeare.mit.edu. Have fun!
Haven't had the time until recently
2 years ago
I finished my first year of Doctoral work, and I have some time this summer, when I’m not actively reading things for classes. Before I get distracted with the final Harry Potter, or the new Vachss book, I think some Shakespeare is in order. So, I started with the comedies. I don’t know why they have us read only the tragedies in High School- Romeo and Juliet, Julius Caesar, Hamlet and Macbeth. I enjoyed them then, but it’s now been 16 years since I’ve read an entire play. I got a copy of the unabridged complete works from my father, who had 2 sitting around the house, and started. Since April, I’ve read The 12th Night, Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, and As You Like It. I’ve just started on All’s Well That Ends Well. I’ve found that the more you read, the easier they get. Additionally, I’ve found many familiar quotes, that I didn’t know the sources, so now I can quote Shakespeare more accurately. Finally, yes, they are comedies, but they’re not really very funny, except for the occasional insult. Those can be quite hilarious. I’m going to keep going on this though. Shakespeare is good to read just before bedtime.
