I do a storytelling interpretation of the plot, listing characters on the chalkboard as I relate the narrative. This is especially effective. It provides a kind of libretto for students that helps them concentrate as they listen to the archaic Shakespearean verse. Sometimes I read Lamb's Tales from Shakespeare aloud to my students, or I invite them to read a Lamb's version of the play in literature circles and complete a plot outline collaboratively. These activities give the students a firm grounding in the plot of the play. This helps them understand what's going on when the language gets difficult and the going gets tough.

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