Shakespeare & The Modern World

      In the last two class periods, we have been discussing the importance of the modern films that have been based on the story plots of Shakespeare's works from the past.  The idea of this 'universal Shakespeare' really got me thinking about the role these films play in the modern world and how much the themes can be applied to our lives today.  Back in the time of Shakespeare, these same themes were considered for mature audiences.  The content was made for and understood mainly by adults.  This idea made me take a step back and realize how much times have changed, and how much these themes are becoming more prevalent among teens, in addition to adults. 

       The concepts of passion and jealousy are found in our everyday lives and in our modern world.  These concepts were part of relationships in the past, and will continue into the future as well.  Initially, Shakespeare's works were performed and presented close to the original text. However, as time went on, the texts have become more modernized.  This modernization of Shakespeare opens our eyes to the fact that famous historical works are still applicable to our everyday lives.  I feel that the modern films, including 'O', Ten Things I Hate About You, etc., really serve to capture this reality.  Learning about Shakespeare and studying his works offers so much more to us than just a simple English or History lesson.  In this, we are able to look past the language, and focus on the underlying message of the work being revealed to us. We become more aware of the dangers of jealousy and love.  We learn about life and the modern world from works of the past -- offering us a much greater reward.

       The whole idea of the intended audience really interests me and got me thinking about these works as well.  As the modern versions of Shakespeare's works continue to be produced, it is evident that most films are intended for teen audiences.  Is this meant to be a reflection of the changing times or is this meant to serve as the most effective way to make a profit?  Typically, teen audiences are portrayed as the biggest supporters of the growing world of entertainment.  Many teens strive to act and dress in response to what they see on the screen.  However, it must also be noted that as times change, the modern world of entertainment is exposing younger audiences to themes considered extremely mature in the past.  Teens today are 'growing up' at a faster pace than the teens of the past.  Relationships are placing more pressure on the importance of the physical, as well as the emotional, aspects.  Passion and jealousy now applies to the kinds of relationships teens are finding themselves in today. 

       So which is it? Is the world of entertainment the main component that is exposing teens to more mature themes at earlier times than in the past? Or is the entertainment world simply a reflection of the things that teens are being exposed to in the modern world, but not the actual source?