Shakespeare you’ll understand
Original text and modern translation, side by side.
Definitions and context with one click.
Modern translations
The original text alongside a faithful modern translation that keeps each character’s voice — formal, witty, or plain.
Understand the context
Click an underlined word for a short, useful note: what it means, where it comes from, and why it matters here.
Test yourself
Check your understanding by reading the original first, then click to reveal the translation.
About Shakespeare Explained
Shakespeare’s plays have it all: beautiful verse, compelling characters, rhetorical genius, farce and innuendo.
But English has changed a lot in the last four centuries, and modern audiences are often left with only a partial understanding of each play.
Shakespeare Explained brings the brilliance of Shakespeare’s plays to life through clear translations, scene synopses, thematic summaries, and explanations of archaic words, historical and mythological allusions, thematic through-lines, puns, and jokes.
We hope you enjoy.
Explore the plays
The first scene of every play is free to read right now.
Full plays are coming soon — see the plans or join the list below.
Hamlet
TragedyA prince feigns madness to avenge his murdered father — the deepest of the tragedies.
Macbeth
TragedyA soldier’s prophecy-fed ambition drives him to murder and ruin.
Romeo and Juliet
TragedyTwo young lovers caught between feuding families — the classic tragedy of love.
Othello
TragedyA trusted ensign poisons a marriage with jealousy and lies.
Much Ado About Nothing
ComedySparring wits and a slandered bride in Shakespeare’s sharpest comedy.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
ComedyLovers, fairies, and mischief tangle on one enchanted night in the woods.
The Merchant of Venice
ComedyProblem playA merchant’s bond, a pound of flesh, and a famous courtroom reckoning.
Julius Caesar
TragedyLoyalty, ambition, and a conspiracy that turns Rome against itself.
Which plays do you want next?
We’ll prioritise what you vote for — which full plays to unlock first, and which new plays we should add. Pick as many as you like.
Be first to read the full plays
We’re polishing the full plays and building a mobile app. Leave your email and we’ll tell you the moment they’re ready — no spam, unsubscribe anytime.
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