Be the best of yourself

Our 11th-grade English Literature class brought King Lear to life!
Before and after the midterm exam, students experienced Act 1, Scene 1 through a dramatic performance—the explosive scene in which King Lear divides his kingdom and tests his daughters' loyalty.
Over the two-week English Literature class, four groups of students reinterpreted this scene, competing for awards such as "Best Director," "Best Leading Actor (Lear/Cordelia)," and "Best Supporting Actor (Goneril/Regan/Kent)." This dramatic performance class was more than just a performance.
When literature moves from textbook to stage, when words are transformed into heartfelt performances, classics truly come alive. Through this firsthand experience, the students not only gained a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's linguistic artistry but also grasped the enduring themes of humanity in King Lear. As one student remarked, "Playing Kent taught me that loyalty isn't just about obedience; it sometimes requires the courage to speak up, even when it's unpleasant."
This special literature class concluded amidst applause at the awards ceremony, but the reflections and emotions it inspired will remain long in the memories of each participant. Perhaps this is the charm of drama education—it's not just about learning literature, but about learning about life; it's not just about acting a role, but about understanding oneself.
When the students took off their crowns, they took away not only acting skills, but also a deeper understanding and appreciation of human nature.