Lesson Details

Shakespeare Intro

2014-2015

Freshman Literature, Fall 2014

Date

Oct. 2, 2014

Additional Info
Literary Term #23: Dialogue
Dialogue is a conversation between two or more people (as opposed to monologue). In a novel, dialogue is a way move the plot forward or to teach the reader something about the characters (indirect characterization).

Allusion #23: The Midas Touch

images here and here

This phrase, ironically, has come to mean something positive, but its original connotation was extremely negative, and the story warned listeners about getting exactly what they wish for. In Greek mythology Midas was a king who asked for and received the power to turn everything he touched to gold. He delighted in his gift until he found that he could neither eat nor drink, and he turned his beloved daughter into a cold, lifeless statue. In despair he asked for the power to be removed, and he lived out the rest of his life quietly in the country.

Ex: "Barbara has been the owner of seven immensely successful restaurants. She clearly has the Midas touch!"


Ex: "Do you ever do badly at anything, or does pretty much everything you touch turn to gold?"




Today, we will begin looking at William Shakespeare, who he was AND who he (maybe) wasn't, in preparation for our reading of Romeo and Juliet. 

We will first read as a class pages 776-777, "William Shakespeare's Life: A Genius From Stratford." 

Next, we will watch a short video called "Ten Reasons Why Shakespeare is a Fraud."

Based on the evidence you've seen so far, what do you think?  Do you think Shakespeare was a real person? Do you think it would diminish the importance of his works if there really wasn't a person called Shakespeare?

After our brief discussion, please read the background to Romeo and Juliet on page 784. On a piece of paper, respond to the following questions:
  • How much do you think "fate" or predestination plays in our lives? Please explain your response.
  • Why do you think so many people have been fascinated with or frightened by this idea? 
  • Do you believe that "everything happens for a reason"? If so, how does this idea play into the concept of fate? If not, what do you think governs our everyday lives and decisions? chance? coincidence? something else?