Shakespeare A
When was Shakespeare born, and when did he die?
Born in April 1564 in England, and died April 23, 1616.
Shakespeare is considered the greatest:
The greatest writer in the English language.
Why is the theme "Love as the Cause of Suffering" associated with this play?
Love as a Cause of Suffering- many characters seem to view love as a kind of curse. Love is also exclusionary- not everyone in the play achieves romantic happiness.
What did Shakespeare have a profound and longstanding impact on?
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1. Literature 2. Language 3. Culture
Approximately how many (ballpark/range) words and phrases has Shakespeare introduced into the English language?
Shakespeare is credited with introducing hundreds of words and phrases into the English language, many of which are still used today.
What are Disguise and Deception seen to cause in the play?
Disguise and Deception- both are seen in the play to cause problems and misunderstandings, but also are shown to be a way for marginalized characters to push the boundaries of societal expectations and norms.
What is significant about Shakespeare's plays and poems?
His plays and poems have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be performed and studied worldwide.
Why is significant about Shakespeare's characters?
Shakespeare's characters are complex and relatable, exploring a wide range of human emotions and experiences.
What theme relates to the play's use of cross-dressing as a narrative technique, which asks the audience to challenge ideas of gender and attraction, both platonic and romantic?
The Uncertainty of Gender
What are the common universal themes of Shakespeare's work?
His works delve into universal themes such as love, loss, ambition, revenge, and the nature of humanity.
Why is Shakespeare still considered a "literary giant?"
Shakespeare's plays continue to captivate audiences and inspire new interpretations and productions, solidifying his status as a literary giant.
Why are Love and Desire powerful drivers of the plot?
Love and Desire- function as powerful drivers of plot because they seem to strike suddenly and unpredictably, and because they render characters helpless to change their feelings. Could relate to fate.
What's something that wasn't in the notes that you already knew or remembered about Shakespeare?
X
What's something that wasn't in the notes that you already knew or remembered about Shakespeare?
X
How are Gender and Sexuality portrayed in the play?
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Gender and Sexuality- in the play, gender and sexuality are portrayed as ambiguous, unstable, and sometimes fluid. Some of the storylines in the play echo the idea of a fluid form of desire not rooted in gender. However, while the play introduces elements of fluidity and ambiguity, it closes with a firmly heteronormative conclusion.