Do you think Shakespeare is overrated?

Question

If so, why?

Answer 1

It is impossible to overrate Shakespeare. He defined described and influenced all modern English literature. There is a sense in which he created modern man within his literature--especially the ability to see oneself from the outside. He coined over 1500 words of his own. His ability to create separate characters is unmatched. His output is prolific. He came onto the litererary stage at a time and with the gifts to develop and complete a transition that was in process, but absolutely no one has surpassed him.

Answer 2

Brilliant storylines and colourful characters - make for excellent plays. As someone else mentioned, the appreciation is entirely different if you are reading his works!

I adore Shakespeare's humour, something which doesn't translate very well when you are studying it and it just feels like tiresome drudgery.

Not overrated in my opinion, but I'm not a huge fan of many of his sonnets

Answer 3

That depends on the circumstances. Are you reading or viewing it? Shakespeare was not meant to be read. In fact, I would say that trying to read his plays is the literary equivalent of a root canal. You read the same stanza over and over again, trying to get the rhythm down, and end up completely losing the meaning. However, if it is there in front of you, as it was intended, the story comes alive.

Answer 4

No, I don't. Actually, he's wildly underrated.

But, what I DO think is that most people who SAY that Shakespeare is overrated probably haven't read much Shakespeare.

Answer 5

Absolutely not. If anything else Shakespeare is underrated due to the fact that there's a lack of appreciation for his works.

Answer 6

I never really understood anything shakespear wrote, not until i viewed the plays. Reading his stuff is kinda painful.

Answer 7

I don't think so. His language is so eloquent. I did my first Shakespeare monologue (actually one of his sonnets) last year, and I was totally transported to another time and place, by the time I mastered it.

Answer 8

no way. i love the plays, but i found some shakespeare my mother had a long time ago, but i couldn't understand any of it. i guess its a better visual thing. but its beautiful.

Answer 9

No, i think he's an underappreciated good author/poet/play-writer

Answer 10

no way! he was a great author/playwriter and he has lots of many great points, but you really have to concentrate and take time to think about what he's saying. but once you understand what he is saying, its so meaningful and sometimes powerful. he has a lot of great points and opinions!