Introduction to Shakespearean Drama

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Introduction to Shakespearean Drama A. Life of William Shakespeare 1. When and where was Shakespeare born?- No one knows exactly when he was born, however they know that he was baptised on April 26th 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England. 2. Describe his upbringing and education. - Shakespeare’s parent was Alderman in Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare was believed to have attended King Edward IV Grammar School in 1571. He was also a catholic. Not much is recorded though about his childhood. 3. What were the four types of plays he wrote? The four plays Shakespeare wrote are Histories, Tragedies, Comedies and Romance. 4. Where were his plays performed and by who? - Shakespeare plays were performed at the Black Friar and the Globe theatre. Both were situated in London. His plays were performed by only men. This is because before 1650 women were not allowed to act in front of a group of men. 5. Besides writing plays, what other skills made Shakespeare a “jack of all trades?”- Besides writing plays, he wrote sonnets, narrative poems, he was an actor, and a shareholder of the company who owned the globe. 6. When and where did Shakespeare die? - William Shakespeare died on the 23rd April, 1616 in his home at Stratford-upon-Avon. He died three days before his recorded baptism which means he died on or after his last birthday. 7. Why do we still read his works today? (Think of theme)- We still read Shakespeare today because his themes are still relevant today. Such as Romeo and Juliet (Young love, Family conflict, suicide), Merchant of Venice (anti-Semitism which is hatred of Jews, Capitalism) and Othello (Political intrigue, Racism). 8. Write five famous quotations that originated in Shakespeare’s plays and poems. Mention the plays or poems from which they come. • "Good Night, Good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I
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