In a captivating discussion, Benedict Whalen, an associate professor of English at Hillsdale College, shares insights on teaching 'Tales From Shakespeare' to children. He emphasizes the importance of children's literature in developing virtue and moral character. Whalen explores the complexities of popular adaptations and the need to engage young readers with Shakespeare's works through imaginative storytelling. He also highlights the Lamb siblings' significant contributions to romantic literature and the evolution of moral themes in children's narratives.
The podcast emphasizes the significance of fostering a love for literature in children before formal instruction to deepen engagement.
Using vocabulary journals enhances students' understanding of 'Tales from Shakespeare' by allowing them to track and appreciate new words.
Introducing 'Tales from Shakespeare' serves as an effective preparatory approach for young readers to engage with Shakespeare's original works later on.
Deep dives
The Distinction Between Free Speech and Free Expression
The podcast emphasizes the important distinction between free speech and free expression, particularly within academic environments. Free speech refers to the legal right to express opinions without censorship, while free expression encompasses a broader range of creative and personal expressions. The discussion highlights how these concepts interplay in educational contexts, where free expression may sometimes clash with institutional regulations or social norms. This nuanced understanding encourages educators to foster environments where both legal rights and personal expressions can coexist and flourish.
The Impact of Dark Money on Governance
Tyler O'Neill's book, 'The Woketopus', explores the influence of dark money groups on American politics and governance. These organizations often operate in secrecy, funding various left-wing initiatives that shape federal policies without transparency. O'Neill discusses how this unaccountable funding mechanism poses challenges to democratic processes and influences bureaucratic actions. He also examines President Trump's efforts to counteract these influences and restore accountability within government institutions.
The Educational Value of Children's Literature
The session focuses on the significance of children's literature in cultivating virtue and moral character among young students. The speaker argues that a love for literature should precede instruction, as this fosters a deeper engagement with the content. In particular, the discussion centers around 'Tales from Shakespeare' by Charles and Mary Lamb, which serves as an introduction to Shakespeare's works for young readers. The underlying message is that teaching literature should aim not just at content mastery, but at nurturing imagination and appreciation for complex themes.
Encounters with Shakespeare’s Language
The difficulty presented by the language in 'Tales from Shakespeare' can be seen as both a challenge and an opportunity in teaching. While students may struggle with the vocabulary, this can prompt meaningful discussions and engagement with the text. The speaker suggests using vocabulary journals to track new words, fostering an environment where students learn to appreciate the nuances of language. This approach encourages a careful reading process, allowing students to develop a deeper understanding of literary styles and techniques.
Preparing for Future Engagement with Shakespeare
The concept of using 'Tales from Shakespeare' as a preparatory tool for later encounters with Shakespeare's original texts is crucial for effective literary education. By providing abridged narratives, educators can introduce young readers to the overarching plots while sparking their curiosity about Shakespeare's actual plays. Engaging students with activities that bridge these texts, such as creative writing or dramatic readings, can enhance their appreciation and excitement for Shakespeare's works. This method prioritizes a gradual and enjoyable engagement with literature rather than a focus on rote memorization or mastery.
Benedict Whalen, associate professor of English at Hillsdale College, delivers a lecture on how to teach Tales From Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb to young children.
This lecture was given at the Hoogland Center for Teacher Excellence seminar, “The Art of Teaching: Children's Literature” in September 2024. The Hoogland Center for Teacher Excellence, an outreach of the Hillsdale College K-12 Education Office, offers educators the opportunity to deepen their content knowledge and refine their skills in the classroom.