FL - Exploring English: Shakespeare #1
WEEK 1 COMPLETE
I worked this course in two sessions but haven’t had the time to update much. So, the summary below is a combined one of both the sessions.
SESSION SUMMARY
Shakespeare’s family life
His education
Stratford-upon-Avon
His marriage - to Anne Hathway - Hamnet and Judith (children)
His introduction to the theatre
TIMELINE
(Source: Futurelearn Course Website)
His international quality- characters came from around the world
Shakespeare’s relationship with London-
The buildings that Shakespeare must have seen were destroyed in the Great Fire London reflects the centre of political power that is the world of Shakespeare’s plays He probably saw the London that is now the Financial District area of London
Shakespeare’s Tragedies to be studied - Hamlet, Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet
Tragedy defined as a story which has an unhappy ending because of the fatal flaw in the protagonist’s character/personality
Shakespeare’s Comedies to be studied - Much ado about Nothing and Tempest
Comedy defined as one which has a happy ending as well as comic relief.
Some Unknown Facts about Shakespeare
(Source: Futurelearn Course Website)
Answers to Questions in the Comments Section
From what we’ve learned so far, what influence do you think Shakespeare’s time in Stratford had on his work?
In the 1580s he left his family in Stratford and moved to London to work in the theatre. How do you think he felt at this time?
What impact do you think your childhood and early years have on your adult life?
Do you agree with James? Does Shakespeare ‘belong’ to you? How?
Do you think there are messages in Shakespeare for people in your country?
Is Shakespeare well known or popular in your country?
What was your first experience of Shakespeare’s work?
What are your favourite plays?
Why do you think his work is still so popular today?