Year 8 – closure work

Read the information carefully On the following slides, there is a lot of information about the context of Romeo and Juliet. You must read it carefully and then use it to complete one of the tasks below: Create a travel guide to 1600s – what could people expect on their visit to the time that Romeo and Juliet is set? What is there for people to do? What laws are important for people to know? An information booklet for students in year 7. Make sure that you are accurate. A diary for a typical teenage girl in the 1600s – use the first person and include facts from your research. HAND IN ON THE FIRST DAY BACK.

Shakespeare’s Life Look carefully at the following webpage: Make notes: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/english_literature/dramaromeojuliet/0drama_romeo juliet_contrev1.shtml

In the tradition of Renaissance Society, men were higher than women! The Court In the tradition of Renaissance Society, men were higher than women! The King and Queen Princes, Princesses Dukes and Duchesses Knights and Ladies

Monarchs Of This Period The monarchs on the throne at this time were Elizabeth the 1st from 1558 to 1603. Then, James the 1st from 1603 to 1625.

Love Love and Relationships were not “conducted” in the way that we expect today! For those in the Court, Love was something that was subject to rules and traditions. Marriages were arranged by parents. Children were chaperoned at all times. Children did not always have the freedom to choose who they would spend their life with and have children with. Plus, marriage happened at a much younger age – as young as 12 (for girls) was totally acceptable!

Suicide Shakespeare nation mortal religious catholic Henry betraying Religion Romeo & Juliet was set in a ‘_________’ society with a strong belief in damnation for mortal sin. It was a very _____________ period. _________ and bigamy were both considered to be ___________ sins. _______________ was writing following ‘The Reformation’. This was when England became a protestant ________, having broken away from from papal control by _________ VIII. Going against your family was seen as ________ God! Suicide Shakespeare nation mortal religious catholic Henry betraying 7

Family Many Shakespeare plays show conflict between parents and children. The father was the undisputed head of the household. Women had no rights or authority in law. They could not own property or money, but could influence their husbands. Children were regarded as ‘property’ – and could be given in marriage to a suitable partner. Often a political or financial transaction, to secure and retain wealth. It was not unusual to be married very young. In high society, children were often raised by a ‘wet nurse’ and did not have a strong bond with parents. 8