One of the Essential Questions for our unit is, "What relevance does Shakespeare's works have on our lives today?" So far, in Taming of the Shrew, we have read about greed, fairness, parental favor, a single parent family, lying, and gender roles. Does this have relevance to your life? If so, please explain how. If you feel that it doesn't, please explain why not.
(5 points)
After Shakespeare's death, several of his friends got together and collected all of his plays. They put them together and had them bound and published as the First Folio. The word folio should sound familiar to you – like portfolio? The First Folio is the title of the collection of Shakespeare's plays.
Go to the following website, http://shea.mit.edu/ramparts/newstuff3.htm. There is an online version of the First Folio and, it gives explanation of the different elements of the folio. List five elements of the folio and tell how they are similar or different from today's books.
(10 points)
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not? Do you think that Shakespeare belives in love at first sight? What evidence from the play (or movie) helps to prove your point?
(5 points)
"I come to wive it wealthily in Padua; If wealthily, then happily in Padua." (1.1.74-75) What does this tell you about Petruchio's character? Do you feel this quote is indicative of Petruchio's true character? Why or why not?
(10 points)
In Act I, Scene 1, line 39 – 40 (written 1.1.39-40), Tranio says to Lucentio "No profit grows where is no pleasure ta'en. In brief, sir, study what you most affect." Tell, in your own words, what Tranio is saying? Do you agree with his message? Why or why not? Remember, this is after Lucentio has seen Bianca but, before he actually meets her. Also, what does this tell you about Tranio? Is he really as dim as he appears?
(10 points)
