Separate spelling, vocabulary and sentence structure
A short classical passage becomes more manageable when you solve its layers separately. Begin with the words and actions that are supplied, then identify omitted subjects only when the surrounding context supports them. Historical kana spelling is a writing system issue, while a classical word's meaning is a vocabulary issue; do not assume that modernizing the spelling automatically gives the modern meaning. For instance, うつくし often concerns something dear or lovely in classical usage. Learn common meanings of auxiliaries, but choose a meaning from its construction and context rather than forcing one translation onto every occurrence. In a typical 係り結び construction, identify the governing particle and examine the predicate form. In kanbun, return marks direct reading order, not the order in which the characters are written. Keep a literal account of who does what before drawing conclusions about a feeling or theme. If the supplied excerpt is too short to determine an unstated motive, avoid adding one in an explanation.