'Studying2B' began as a stand-alone short film, creatively bringing Shakespeare's most famous soliloquy to life through six individual characters, each grappling with their own internal battles. The project, led by the award-winning screenwriter Nicko Vaughan, has evolved to include an educational component, creating an engaging and relatable resource for schools and colleges studying Hamlet.
The challenge lies in making Shakespeare's language and themes, including depression, suicide, and uncertainty, accessible and relevant to modern audiences, particularly teenagers. Another aspect is encouraging open discussions around the struggles faced by the characters, thereby fostering a safe and empathetic learning environment.
'Studying2B' presents traditional Shakespearean language in contemporary settings. The film interweaves the outer lives and inner turmoil of characters, drawing on Hamlet's soliloquy. The dedicated Studying2b.com website, currently under construction, will serve as a free resource for teachers and students. It will help to break down the soliloquy, encourage open conversations about the issues faced by Hamlet, and offer alternative, interactive scenes in both original and modern English.
By linking Shakespeare's work with current societal issues, 'Studying2B' makes classical literature relatable and promotes a more profound understanding of the themes in Hamlet. It is set to enhance the student learning experience through interactive and innovative teaching methods.
