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Chandigarh: June 19th, 2023: (By Sanyam Aggarwal):

Shakespeare’s sensational works are not only fascinating but they still have great prominence in modern literature! Come along to read about 5 of his works that are my personal favorite.  

1. Hamlet 

This ‘revenge tragedy’ is my favourite play of all time. It is an interesting read where the prince of Denmark is guided by the spirit of his father who was murdered to avenge his death by killing Hamlet’s uncle who becomes the new king. Themes revolve around contemplation the real meaning of life and death, vengeance and madness. 
One of the extremely cherished phrase’s of this play is “To be, or not to be" (Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 1) 

2. Tempest 

A comedy about redemption and complexities of nature vs nurture. Prospero who is one of the main characters is the former Duke of Milan and he has learnt magic arts that he uses to shipwreck his enemies magician and former Duke of Milan, seeks revenge from his enemies to get his kingdom back. With a compelling climax it will leave you wondering what happens next.
One of my most treasured quotes from this play is “If by your art, my dearest father, you have put the wild waters in this roar, allay them. The sky, it seems, would pour down stinking pitch, but that the sea, mounting to the welkin’s cheek, dashes the fire out.” (The Tempest, Act 1, Scene 2) 

3. The Merchant of Venice

A story with lessons the complex nature of prejudice and strength in showing mercy. Antonio is a merchant who borrows some amount from a Jewish moneylender but fails to repay the debt and Shylock (moneylender) puts forward a demand as a collateral for the same which is a pound of Antonio’s flesh. Read to have an insight into how his friend disguises herself as a lawyer and argues in favour of justice. 
She gives a speech stating “The quality of mercy is not strained” (Act 4, Scene 1). 

4. Macbeth

A thriller of supernatural, deep and dark tragedy about a Scottish lord in medieval era who is persuaded by his wife and three enchanting witches who make him determined and foretell the glory of murdering the King. But unfortunately Macbeth is trapped in a downward spiral as the event unfold and is consumed by his own guilt. Even after accomplishing his task and gaining to power his reign bears a heaviness of being a cursed thing. 

An expression we all will agree with all the adoration we have in us is “Who could refrain, 

That had a heart to love, and in that heart 
Courage to make love known?” (Act 2, Scene 3) 

5. A Midsummer Night's Dream

Mystical fairy along the theme of illusion, the power that our dreams hold and romance is what the play is about. As the mortals are lost in woods the whimsical creatures make an attempt to help with their romantic issues. This is a delightful dreamy play and you will like reading this awesome magical comedy. Will the lovers find their true love? 

“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” (Act 1, Scene 1)

(Bonus part)

6. Othello

A classic tragedy about Othello, the noble Moor who is in love with Desdemona. Lago poisons Othello’s view by manipulating him.
Othello’s love turns toxic and consumes him to commit vengeance. This ultimately traps everyone including him in a devastating downfall because of Othello’s unchecked jealousy. The main theme in this play explores the concepts of deceit and jealousy which is fueled by destructive power. 
It was only right to his unjust act of killing, when he takes upon himself the same pain of dying “I kissed thee ere I killed thee. No way but this, 

Killing myself, to die upon a kiss.” (Act 5,Scene 2)

(Image Credit by Arthparkash Desk)

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