Performing Shakespeare in ASL help

bohemiatina

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Hello all! First time poster, so i apologize if this has been discussed before.

I am a hearing individual who is taking ASL classes in my spare time. I have the opportunity to perform a Shakespearean monologue in ASL for my class for extra credit. I was just wondering how to approach the project. The monologue has very flowery language, using the Elizabethan language in lengthy metaphors. Should I try to translate/sign the original text, or should I sign what those metaphors mean in today's language?

For example, the original text:
Gallop apace, you fiery-footed steeds,
And bring in cloudy night immediately.

Should I try to translate this as close to the text as possible, or sign what it means in modern English, which is the equivalent of "I wish the sun would hurry up and set and night would come immediately."?

Thank you so much for any help that can be offered!
 
What level ASL are you taking? I can't imagine any earthly reason why an ASL student would take on Shakespeare for an assignment. Interpreting poetry, plays, songs, etc., is upper level specialized interpreting. It's for fluent ASL users who know how to analyze the piece. It's not for part-time beginners.
 
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