Shakespeare Life and Time Test

English Honors I

When was Shakespeare born, and when did he die?

1564-1616

What was the name of the general time period in which Shakespeare lived?

English Renaissance or Elizabethan Era

What theater company was Shakespeare a member of?

Lord Chamberlain’s Men

What was the name of theater where some Shakespeare’s most famous plays were performed?

The Globe Theater

In addition to tragedies, what other types of plays did Shakespeare write?

Comedy, history, and romances

What is the difference between poetry and prose?

• Poetry: concentrated language

• Prose: everyday language

What is meter?

The use of a regular rhythmic patterns in language pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables.

What is blank verse?

unrhymed iambic pentameter

What is unrhymed iambic pentameter?

a five meter verse

Why did Shakespeare write in blank verse?

It was a fairly common practice in the Elizabethan era. Just because.

Indicate the iambic pentameter marks (stressed and unstressed syllables) for the following lines:

• “A horse! A horse! My kingdom for a horse!”

• “You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things!”

• “If you have tears, prepare to shed them now.”

Indicate the iambic pentameter marks (stressed and unstressed syllables) for the following lines:

• “A horse! A horse! My kingdom for a horse!”

• “You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things!”

• “If you have tears, prepare to shed them now.”

Why do Shakespeare’s plays employ words to such an extent?

Words were all they had to set the stage.

How were Elizabethan audiences used to having things presented?

Through speech, physically outside

How did Shakespeare convey important scenes?

Through speech

What are three ways we can gather information and gain insight about a character in a play?

1. By what they say

2. By what others say about them

3. By what they do

Is it appropriate for a theatrical company to interpret and change things around in a Shakespeare play?

Yes, by updating the setting, adapting the language, making characters relatable, incorporating modern technology, and focusing on relevant themes.

What are the main differences between Elizabethan drama and modern drama?

1. The importance of words

2. Real life v.s. stage life

3. Symbolism

What are the main elements of a tragic figure?

1. Noble

2. Suffer or downfall

3. Recognizes the consequences of there actions

4. Face there downfall with courage or dignity