Late Reactions

As I read each page of "King Lear," I retain little of what Shakespeare writes. I almost feel as if I'm not worthy of reading his so called masterpiece because I don't enjoy it or appreciate it as much as it should be. I feel like the play is wasted on me. I read each sentence, but rarely do I understand the plot line or what anyone is trying to say. I can read a whole scene and have the slightest idea about what it going on.
However, there is hope for me. Whenever I don't understand the Shakespearean language (which is more than often) I look at the little footnotes on the bottom which translate the words into more modern and sensible language. Although, this does get quite annoying and after awhile I just get sick of it and continue reading words that I don't understand and not comprehending much of this valued authors work. The only thing that really helps me to finally fathom Shakespeare's writing is discussion. Whether it is with one peer or an entire class, when discussing the play "King Lear" things that were once foggy become clear as day. We will talk about the overall plot and the characters and their actions, and suddenly in my head I say "Ohhhh, so that's what was happening there, I understand." All I have to say is that I need a little extra help to understand what's going on, and although the language is surly and spiteful, the plot, I must admit, is actually quite interesting, despite the fact that the end is completely predictable for a Shakespeare play and everyone dies. That needed no untangling and discussion for me to understand what was going on because I would have been shocked if it didn't happen. All in all, a late reaction to "King Lear" is much better than no reaction or understanding at all.

chelmsford.