How did Shakespeare's works impact modern literature?

Question

I need to give a 3 minute presentation explaining how Shakespeare's works made an impact on literature, what he created/discovered and why his works have lived on. Any examples and quotes would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Perhaps you can take a popular Shakespeare work, such as Romeo and Juliet, and consider the works that have used that as inspiration in more contemporary media. For example, West Side Story shares a similar plot. The story of Romeo and Juliet itself has been told several times in multiple film adaptations, including animations such as Gnomeo and Juliet. Other adaptations/interpretations include Warm Bodies, Rome & Jewel, and Vicious Circle.

Honorable mention to The Lion King for its ties to Hamlet!

Answer 2

Since you have only three minutes, why not focus on one of Shakespeare's quotes and discuss it in your own unique, personal style? In that way you can show how Shakespeare understood and impacted so many people's minds and lives.

Here's a quote you might like to use: "Or in the night, imagining some fear, How easy is a bush supposed a bear!"

It's from Act 5 of A Midsummer Night's Dream

Answer 3

Shakespeare shaped modern English by introducing a number of new words and phrases. It's actually quite a long list! Here is a reasonably trustworthy source on the matter: https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/william-shakespeares-450th-birthday-50-everyday-phrases-that-came-from-the-bard-9275254.html

That could be a fun angle, or slide, to add!