Real-life stories:
1. Malala Yousafzai's Activism: The story of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012 for speaking out in favor of education for girls, has all the elements of a Shakespearean tragedy. It involves a young woman fighting against oppression, personal sacrifice, and the triumph of good over evil.
2. The Arab Spring Uprisings: The Arab Spring uprisings of 2011, which saw protests and revolutions in several countries in the Middle East and North Africa, could be turned into a historical play exploring themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for freedom.
Fictional stories:
1. The Hunger Games Trilogy: The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins, set in a dystopian future, tells the story of Katniss Everdeen, a young woman who volunteers to take her sister's place in a televised fight to the death. The series explores themes of survival, rebellion, and the power of love and hope.
2. Harry Potter Series: The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, set in a magical world, follows the journey of Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his destiny as the chosen one. The series explores themes of friendship, courage, and the fight against evil, making it a great candidate for a Shakespearean adaptation.
3. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy: The Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien, set in Middle-earth, tells the epic tale of a group of hobbits who embark on a quest to destroy a powerful ring and save the world from the Dark Lord Sauron. The series combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and heroism, making it suitable for a Shakespearean interpretation.
These stories have strong narratives, compelling characters, and universal themes that would resonate with audiences today, just as Shakespeare's plays did during his time.