- Form Five student Zheng Kuang-hu writes about his school’s Shakespeare festival and learning more about old English literature and phrases
Students at Munsang College recently had the chance to immerse themselves in the dramatic world of William Shakespeare at the exhibition “For All Time: Shakespeare,” co-organised by the school’s English language, visual arts, and music departments and the library.
One part of the exhibition was the English drama club’s performance of an excerpt from The Merchant of Venice. The actors skilfully conveyed their emotions, drawing us into the story.
We were encouraged to contemplate solutions when faced with dilemmas in the plot, emphasising themes such as mercy and empathy. The play transported us to a world of romance and bitterness.
Students also presented information about the Bard through exhibits, including displays and board games that provided insight into Shakespeare’s life and work. The Taylor Swift song, “Love Story,” which correlates with Romeo and Juliet, played in the background, and the area was decorated with art inspired by Shakespeare.
We tried our hand at calligraphy using fountain pens similar to those used by the writer himself. We copied his style and learned about his quotes. It was impressive to learn how the Bard could express profound feelings with such concise phrases.
We also discovered more about English literature and learned to match old words with their modern equivalents in a rewarding game that let us collaborate with classmates.
After the exhibition, my friends and I began using vintage language in our daily conversations. It seems the Bard was right when he said, “One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” I have been inspired to explore the beauty of language.