Shakespeare, Basketball, and The Three Little Pigs

Okay, I admit it. I am not a fan of Shakespeare. I HATE the story of Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer's Night Dream! Granted those are the only two stories I've read, but might I just say I'm sooo not impressed. The premise of Taming of the Shrew shows promise, but as of yet I have not read it. I will admit the man had a way with words, but the stories themselves (at least the ones I have read) stunk! A majority of people will say that Romeo and Juliet, although tragic, was incredibly romantic. Oh please! It's a story of two boneheaded teenagers hyped up on hormones that come up with the stupidest plan imaginable to bring their families together. They die because of miscommunication – nothing heroic, nothing romantic about that! Yeah, I know, it's supposed to be a tragedy, but they both died because of stupidity! I could go on and on, but that's not what this post is about. As far as A Midsummer Night's Dream, I'm pretty sure ol' Bill was hopped up on opium or something when he wrote it. Have I mentioned I HATED those two stories? ;-)

Anyway, with all of my loathing of Shakespeare, you'd think I wouldn't care for Old English much. You'd be wrong! It's quite fun to start incorporating it into your daily speech at random (thou shouldest attempt yon endeavor for perchance thou might liketh it)! ;-) I've recently discovered that the use of Old English (not the cleaning solution) can make certain narratives a lot more enjoyable. Take basketball for instance; I don't like that particular sport and, as previously mentioned, I don't like Shakespeare. However, have the basketball announcers start talking like Shakespeare might have, and, by jove, both become a LOT more interesting! If you don't believe me, check out the clip below by comedians Ted and Lee. I think I'd be tempted to attend a basketball game now and then if it was carried out like their sketch. ;-)



I also found a clip by another of my favorite comedians John Branyan. Here he continues the Shakespearean theme by showing us how the story of the Three Little Pigs might have sounded had Shakespeare written it. I have to say, I think I prefer it! ;-) Now if they had taught us Shakespeare like this in school, I might have enjoyed the lessons a lot more. All of these rapscallions have induced me to cackle with delight. Perchance thou wilt do the same and gain a merry heart! ;-)