‘Minds eye,’ ‘catch a cold,’ ‘leapfrog,’ ‘majestic,’ and ‘lonely.' All phrases and words that have been adopted into the English language thanks to Shakespeare; arguably, the most influential writer in the English language. Yet historians are almost certain that he never went to university and it is likely that his school composition classes looked nothing like what is taught in schools today. Would the grammar school children in the 1500s be asked to write a five paragraph essay on their summer vacation? Maybe, but it would definitely have had to be in Latin!
So if Shakespeare wasn’t following one of the many curriculums that are now available to ensure we become good writers, why are we still reading his works to this day?
Perhaps writing is more about the ideas conveyed than following the five W’s and other formulas. Original manuscripts found of Shakespeare’s show erratic spelling and poor punctuation. This was probably common for the time period and, of course, these basic elements are important to teach, but his poor use of the mechanics does highlight the fact that the ideas contained within are even more important. Mechanics are there to convey the ideas.
Where do good ideas come from? Charlotte Mason says, "Thought breeds thought; children familiar with great thoughts take as naturally to thinking for themselves as the well-nourished body takes to growing."
Scholars of Shakespeare believe he was well read and many of his favourite books have featured in his plays. It is also widely known that Shakespeare reused stories already in circulation for his plots. Retelling stories was not seen as plagiarism as it is with us today, and was often used by playwrights. The audience would know the original stories well and enjoy the references to the old plots while also enjoying the intelligent new retelling. Additionally, in his school days, Latin classes would have had the boys reenacting scenes from Roman and Greek Mythology; narration making an appearance.
Personally, I think that Shakespeare must have been a keen observer. What made him so popular both now and then is his accurate portrayal of the human element. I imagine he spent many hours in his early years observing people, using his perception to add more depth, honesty, and even humour, to his characters.
And of course, observation in Mason’s programmes abounds: picture study, dictation and copywork, nature study, to name a few. Careful observation can reveal new ideas to us. Some of those who have taken time to observe nature have benefitted not only from deeper rest and renewal, but have also gone on to produce great works of art, great discoveries in science, or great pieces of literature and poetry: Vivaldi, Newton, Wordsworth, Potter, Monet. Let us not neglect the benefit of careful observation.
Children generally notice and wonder much more than adults. They love to tell back and they enjoy stories. All key ingredients we so often forget to consider when we are trying to encourage them to become writers.
Charlotte Mason says it so well: “Every common miracle which the child sees with his own eyes makes of him for the moment another Newton.”
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