Introduction to Shakespeare Research Activity
Introduction to Shakespeare Research Activity
Directions: In groups of 3-4, research one of the following topics and create a presentation (Google Slides/Prezi/etc.) to share with the class. The presentation should be neatly organized, and it should contain relevant, important information. The presentation should contain 7-10 slides of information, and each member of your group will be responsible for presenting particular information from the presentation.
Please adhere to the following requirements:
- Bold the information on each slide that you feel is most important. (This info will be referenced later on in the form of a quiz.)
- During the presentation, do not simply read straight from the slide. Know your information!
- Create a slide at the end of the presentation that contains all of the websites/articles from which you found information. (This includes pictures!)
- You must find your information from verified websites. NO WIKIPEDIA. The following links will take you to sites where you can find legitimate information:
- Shakespeare Databases: http://library.cscc.edu/c.php?g=126683&p=828394
- PHS Library Databases:
Presentation Date: Friday, February 24
** Your research should not be limited to the points of interest listed for each topic.
1) Billy’s World: Research the life of William Shakespeare
Points of interest: What can you tell us about Billy? What was his early life like? What was his life like as a playwright? What are some important life events that helped shape his life? When/how did he become famous? What other skills did he have in addition to writing? Are there any interesting theories/controversies that involve Shakespeare?
2) Billy’s Era: Research Shakespeare’s Time Period
Points of interest: What was happening around the world during this time period? What were some important world events that were transpiring? How did these world events affect Shakespeare or England as a whole? What other notable historical figures were living during this time, and what impact were they having on the world?
3) Billy’s England: Research Shakespeare’s England
Points of interest: What was happening in England during the time period in which Shakespeare lived? How was England being shaped, and how did it affect/influence Shakespeare? Are there any similarities between this time period and the time period in which we live today? What was the social makeup of England during this time period? What did the average day look like?
4) Billy’s Writings: Research Shakespeare’s Work
Points of interest: What has he written? Is he most famous for any particular work(s)? How are his writings viewed today? Are there any modern day adaptations of his writings? What was it like for Shakespeare during this time period? Is there a reason that we still read Shakespeare today? What was special about his work?
5) Billy’s House: Shakespearean Theatre
Points of interest: Where did performances take place? Who owned and operated these theatres? Where were they located? Where were they located? Describe the architecture, seating and atmosphere. What did they look like? How big was the stage? How big was the theatre? Capacity? Did these theatres use props? How did they change scenes (backdrops, scenery)? What did they do for lighting (no electricity)? What types of clothing did different social classes within the theatre wear?
6) Comedy Overview: Research the Role of Comedy Throughout History
Points of interest: What are some different kinds of comedy? Where did comedy in drama originate? Can you trace its history to 2015? What are the main characteristics of Shakespeare’s comedies? Who are the greatest comedic characters of drama and literature throughout history, and what makes these characters so memorable/unique? Are there any similarities/differences between Shakespeare’s comedy and the comedy we have today?