Shakespeare in Medical Education

This chapter addresses how engaging with Shakespeare’s plays can develop medical students’ empathy. At present the medical undergraduate curriculum is dominated by the biomedical sciences. The inclusion of the humanities enhances creativity and curiosity in empathic relationships. The chapter discusses interventions to enhance empathy through drama: play reading, drama module, role play, role modelling, and storytelling. Drama plays an important role in cultivating well-being and stimulating clinical curiosity. The chapter concludes by arguing for the integration of humanities into medical education.