Why does Shakespeare make a difference?
Shakespeare is widely considered one of the greatest playwrights in history, and his works have had a profound and lasting impact on the world of literature and beyond. Here are some reasons why Shakespeare makes a difference:

1. Language: Shakespeare's use of language is renowned for its beauty, complexity, and versatility. He coined numerous words and phrases that are still in use today, and his works continue to influence modern English.
2. Influence: Shakespeare's works have been performed and adapted countless times over the past 400 years, and have had an immeasurable impact on literature, theatre, and popular culture. His themes and characters continue to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
3. Exploration of Human Nature: Shakespeare's plays explore the depths of human nature and the complexities of the human experience. His characters are often flawed, but they are also relatable, and their struggles and triumphs continue to resonate with audiences today.
4. Innovation: Shakespeare was a pioneer in the world of theatre, experimenting with new forms and techniques that would go on to shape the future of drama. He was a master of both tragedy and comedy, and his plays continue to be studied and performed around the world.
A common argument is that that the methods in which high schools in the United States is teaching Shakespeare is incorrect as Shakespearean plays are best understood when acted out instead of read like traditional literature. Is there merit to this argument?
There is certainly merit to the argument that Shakespearean plays are best understood when acted out instead of just being read as traditional literature. Shakespeare's plays were originally written to be performed on stage, and they were meant to be experienced as live theater.

When a play is performed, the audience is able to see the actors' facial expressions, hear their tone of voice, and witness the action and movement on stage. This can help to bring the play to life and make it easier to understand and follow the plot and characters.

In addition, Shakespeare's language is often complex and difficult to understand, especially for students who are not used to reading older forms of English. Seeing the play performed can help to clarify the meaning of the language and make it more accessible to modern audiences.

However, this does not mean that reading Shakespeare's plays as literature is completely without value. Reading the plays can help students to analyze the language, explore the themes and motifs, and deepen their understanding of the characters and their motivations.

Ideally, a complete study of Shakespeare would include both reading and performance. By reading the play first, students can gain a deeper understanding of the language and themes, and then seeing the play performed can help to bring those ideas to life and make the play more engaging and memorable.