There are few better ways to learn about human nature than through the breathtakingly beautiful poetry and witty words of Shakespeare’s plays. His fascinating characters showcase the virtues and vices we see in our own lives and in those around us. We see the faithful and faithless characters, the generous and the jealous, the greedy and the honest, the powerful and the merciful, and watch as they get their due. Lindisfarne Hall 7th-12th grader students get to read and experience at least one Shakespeare play together each year!

We probably read Shakespeare in the first place for his stories, afterwards for his characters, the multitude of delightful persons with whom he makes us so intimate that afterwards, in fiction or in fact, we say, ‘She is another Jessica,’ and ‘That dear girl is a Miranda’; ‘She is a Cordelia to her father,’ and, such a figure in history, ‘a base Iago.’ To become intimate with Shakespeare in this way is a great enrichment of mind and instruction of conscience. Then, by degrees, as we go on reading this world-teacher, lines of insight and beauty take possession of us, and unconsciously mould our judgments of men and things and of the great issues of life.”
Charlotte Mason, Volume 2, p. 71

*Each year the 7th-12th graders also read two of Plutarch’s Parallel Lives and a Greek play together. Every other year in October we read the English epic poem “Ballad of the White Horse”.