Disclosure / Disclaimer: I received this book free of charge,from FaithWords, via Hachette Publishing, for review purposes on this blog. No other compensation, monetary or in kind, has been received or implied for this post. Nor was I told how to post about it, all opinions are my own.
And now for a book that takes on multiple historical books and plays!
Synopsis:
101 lines or passages from William Shakespeare's works paired with Scripture passages that appear in the bard's classics. Published just in time for the Shakespeare 400th birthday celebrations, this past week!
Shakespeare was heavily influenced by Holy Writ. Bible lines, characters and narratives are "verbal characters" in the his plays, poems and sonnets, sometimes subtly and sometimes blatantly. But they are there, revealing the deep scriptural well that was the culture from which Shakespeare drew and also reminding us of scenes and stories in the Bible.
Shakespeare knew the Bible--as did everyone during that time. He used Scripture freely in what he wrote because through such biblical allusions, audiences would immediately grasp his meanings, characterizations and unfolding situations. His works-meant to be performed-gave Scripture life. The Bible was not mere words in Shakespeare's work, but, like all of Scripture, were used for reproof, instruction, conviction and training.
Listening to Shakespeare with an ear that's open to whispers from God's Word can kindle both passion for his great literary works and the Greatest Book of all, Holy Scripture.
Review:
If you are homeschooling, you NEED this book! Seriously need it! The book is small, but it packs a mighty punch, to help you teach your kids about Shakespeare's varied plays, and how they got their morality and commonality- from the bible- the one book people knew from sermons, or having actually read it! This little book is mind blowing for the scholar, to realize JUST how much of Shakespeare's writings can be based on bible quotes!
I don't think I had ANY teachers, high school or university, make that connection for me. it perfectly makes sense, but it was like a huge light bulb moment for me, as I realized how much easier this little book would make it for Miss Grace to learn the plays and sonnets! Plus the author gives you historical nuggets, like the one below, that can open up a way to bring in culture, social studies and history as well to your lesson plan. Boom! Homeschooling parents LOVE when that happens!
Add in the different teaching notes on Shakespeare, and you truly have a little book that makes learning Shakepeare's works FUN- once you realize one bible quote matches up, you can go on a scavenger hunt for more, and see how many the teens get right!I love how the bible verse and quote from Shakespeare, with where it is from for both, are included, so kids can verify it in both texts! Teachers and homeschoolers alike will LOVE this little book! making it the perfect gift for students and teachers, alike this holiday season! So be sure to pick up a couple of copies- one for your family and one to share!
About the Author
MAISIE SPARKS is is a wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend. A writer by profession, she also scribbles on the backs of church bulletins--which is how this book got started. Several years ago, she stumbled upon the art of spiritual direction and learned the difference between being still and doing nothing. Since then, she's been sharing contemplative spiritual practices with anyone who's willing to listen for God's loving voice in the silence.
She is the author of 151 Things God Can't Do,which was updated and republished in October 2015. She is author of the Christian best seller 101 Things the Devil Can't Do, as well, and her books have sold over 200,000 copies internally. Check out her website for more info!
BOOK ALERT:
Maisie and Lauren ALSO have a lovely Christmas Coloring book for adults coming out in November! Be sure to tag Christmas Quiet for pre-order! A 25 day devotional, and coloring book, it will get you through all the stress of the holiday season!
I have the Holy Shakespeare book and just love it. It is interesting to know what a profound impact Scripture and scriptural concepts had on the Bard. <><
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