An Introduction

Mr. Wilson’s English Class - 506

William Shakespeare

(1564-1616)

In your common-place books, please try to answer the following questions to the best of your ability:

Who was William Shakespeare, why do you know his name and why is he such a big deal?

Try and name as many of his plays as you can.

Please write a few lines of BLANK VERSE in “Shakespearian English” about your trip to school this morning.

Shakespeare wrote 38 plays, 154 sonnets and some other narrative poems.

His plays have been translated into ever single language and are performed more then any other Theatre pieces.

Considering there is little evidence connecting the name “William Shakespeare” to his body of work – there has been some speculation about the validity of his work.

However, everyone does readily agree, that however wrote the stuff – it is pure genius.

In your common-place books, please answer the follow questions?

What was the function of “plays” or the theatre back in the 16th and 17th century?

Do you find it strange that what was once considered “uncivilized behavior” is now the height of culture?

What about the language? Is language still used to differentiate people today? Explain using examples…

(in terms of Shakespeare – of course…)

Heir to the throne.

Mufasa is killed by Scar, his brother – who takes over.

Simba tries to forget who he is – and runs away.

Heir to the throne, only too young (16 or 17).

Father dies – later finds out it was his Uncle killed him.

Hamlet goes a little crazy, starts acting all weird and EMO.

Hamlet

Simba is found by his girlfriend – decides to do the right thing.

The story ends with an epic duel – Good vs. Evil.

Order is restored.

Hamlet’s girlfriend kills herself – and he decides to finish off his Uncle.

Also ends in an epic duel – where everyone dies.

Order is restored.

Hamlet

Your Assignment!For tomorrow, find a picture of the Prince of Denmark that you think fully encompasses the idea of the brooding Prince who is obsessed with death and vengeance.

(Plebians…)