Blogger #7 - Katherine Chow - Period 2 - 11/23/21
Aim: How can our understanding of Shakespeare's language support our comprehension of Julius Caesar?
Warm-Up and Class Discussion:
Review & recall:
What is a monologue? Consider the word "dialogue" if you're unsure!
In class, we discussed what the definition of monologue may be. Many people had similar answers. For example, something someone is saying but only by themselves. Although some answers were not completely correct, they did offer valuable insight into the subject/topic.
NEWS: Team names were changed today! They were changed to names based on Julius Caesar.
Monologue and Soliloquy:
Monologue vs Soliloquy Article
A monologue, where a character is talking for a certain amount of time without being interrupted, and soliloquy, where a character is talking for a certain amount of time without any other character being there to hear, will be very prominent in this unit of Shakespeare. It is an element that is apparent in many of his writings, allowing for great relevance with these two topics.
Shakespeare Old English? Middle English? :
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The writing above is one of Shakespeare’s writings. Contrary to popular belief, this is written in Early Modern English. It is no surprise that reading and understanding English used in earlier times may be difficult. This is why the passages utilized in this unit will be translated to be in modern English.
Shakespeare and Plays in the Past:
The Many Lines Attributed to Shakespeare ~
As clearly shown, Shakespeare had a prominent and relevant impact on the English language. Many of the phrases used today come from Shakespeare although many do not know it. Additionally, the language used by Shakespeare undoubtedly contributes to the impact of his writing. Because of the careful selection of words, his writings have the impact that they do.
There Is No Escaping Shakespeare | The New York Times - YouTube
The Globe Theater ~
The globe theater was the theater where Shakespeare would have his plays performed. The class discussed the way women were seen as too “delicate” to perform on stage. Therefore, men also played female roles. Additionally, the reason as to why there was no roof is because back then, there was a lack of technology. Therefore, natural lighting was needed. Because of the sun, the many plays performed every day would be able to be fueled. Furthermore, the theater was also opened to everyone. Although the tickets were considered expensive to the poor, going to theaters and watching films were a means of entertainment.
TEAMWORK:
Groups were supposed to work together after watching the visual performance of Shakespeare’s As You Like It, Act 2 Scene.
Shakespeare’s, As You Like it, All the world’s a stage . . . (Act II, vii) [2:48]
1 As You Like It (Act II, vii) Monologue
1. Work with your neighbors to diffuse the text by highlighting and annotating.
a. According to Shakespeare, what are the “seven ages” of man?
According to Shakespeare, the “seven ages” of men consisted of: baby (infant), childhood (school boy), teenager (lover), young adult (soldier), middle aged (justice), old man, and death.
2. Reread the first four lines of the monologue.
a. What metaphor is Shakespeare using to describe human life? Shakespeare is using the metaphor that life is a stage to describe human life.
b. How and why is this an appropriate comparison?
This is an appropriate comparison because actors play the roles of many different people.
Leaders and Power Whole Class Discussion:
"Absolute power corrupts absolutely." - Sir John Dalberg-Acton, 8th Baronet
This is an idea from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar.
1) How does it connect to what we've discussed about leaders?
A : When someone holds all power, it is very easy for them to be swept up with the idea of being powerful. This causes them to do selfish and inconsiderate acts.
2) Is there ever an instance in which it is acceptable for a leader to have absolute control?
A : There could be an instance in which it is acceptable for a leader to have absolute control when there is a dangerous situation and they are leading their people to safety.
3) Describe the role of the US government?
A : The role of the US government is that they are supposed to make choices and decisions that would help and influence the people’s society.
4) How would you feel if the President changed their title to king/queen?
A : If the President had changed their title to king/queen then I would feel that they might be having too much power and this may not be beneficial for the individuals in the society. Additionally, giving them a title of a king/queen gives them a big role in society and many individuals probably would not agree with that.
Reflection:
What Did I Learn? :
In this lesson, we learned about some of the key elements of Shakespeare’s works and also about him. For example, monologue and soliloquy. These two things are two very prominent aspects of theatre and still, continue to make a big impact. These scenes in plays and writing allow the readers and audience to see new sides and perspectives of a specific character, expanding their character dynamic. This is used to grow the story. There are also many literary elements Shakespeare uses to illustrate certain ideas. Furthermore, it was also learned that Shakespeare contributed immensely to many of the modern-day phrases we use. From phrases or even words, we have Shakespeare to thank for them.
Why DId I Learn It? :
We learned this material about Shakespeare to introduce us to the unit and to also help us acknowledge and understand future literary works we will be tasked with. The understanding of certain elements in works revolving around theater are important in the interpretation and understanding of all of Shakespeare’s scripts and documents. In order to understand this, however, students must at least have a broad understanding of both Shakespeare and his work.
How Will I Use it? :
I will use my newly acquired knowledge by utilizing it when performing any other work. It is not limited to only Shakespeare’s writings, but writing of any sort. Understanding certain texts, documents, questions, etc are vital throughout everyday life. Therefore, allowing the skills learned in Literature class to expand to many other subjects.
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