400 years since Shakespeare: Looking beyond Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet

The man needs no introduction. His works have continued to charm, thrill and bewitch generations of readers over centuries. He is as relevant today, 400 years after his death, as he was in his own time.

The man needs no introduction. His works have continued to charm, thrill and bewitch generations of readers over centuries. He is as relevant today, 400 years after his death, as he was in his own time.

William Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616, in Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom. (Facebook/William Shakespeare)

However, William Shakespeare’s immense popularity gives us the illusion that we know him. But do we, beyond his popular tragedies?

To mark his 400th death anniversary, we bring to you five of his lesser-known plays that are no less brilliant, and hence totally worth your time.

Read: The Bard and language: How Shakespeare changed English forever

Antony and Cleopatra

Read it to understand the subtleties of a mature love that isn’t overwhelming or flamboyant. The historical drama depicts in an arresting, earnest way the struggles of a romance that can see beyond itself.

Merchant of Venice

King Lear

This disturbing tale of filial ingratitude is sure to sear your heart with its brilliant diction and poignant narration. A classic Shakespearean tragedy, it depicts how a man meets his doom through his own weaknesses and follies.

Read: How well do you know William Shakespeare? Find out with this quiz

The Taming of the Shrew

Denounced widely for being misogynistic and offensive, there is a lot more to the taming of wild Katherine than meets the eye. Do not let the comical subplot deceive you. Look beyond the disguised lovers trying to woo a lady.

Henry IV – Parts 1 and 2

The historical drama has given us Falstaff. Do we need to say more? Full of joie de vivre, Falstaff does not just mock the class system, he lives the joke. Read it for him, if nothing else.

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