1. Say/Mean/Matter
Similar to Dialectical journals, but with three columns instead of 2
Intended to:
Allow students to respond thoughtfully and openly without fear of being “wrong”
Develop a dialogue between you and the text
You will be looking for any devices you find in the play (metaphor, similes, hyperbole, oxymorons, double entendre, symbolism, characterization –direct or indirect) or you may choose a quote that directly relates to the theme of the play or a motif (love, hate, destiny, honesty, respect, etc.)
The idea is that you are very deliberate in your choice of quotes

2. Say
Mean
Matter
The quote goes here, in quotation marks, with slashes (/) to indicate a line break, and the act #, scene #, and line #, all separated by period (for example: ) in parenthesis—do not include page number. Additionally, you must also include the character(s) who are speaking.
Summarize the quote in your own words. Give the context of what is being said (when, to whom, where, etc). Do not analyze at all, simply demonstrate that you understand what is happening in the quote (not always easy with Shakespeare).
Start by stating what device is being used and why (for example, if it is a simile, explain what is being compared). Then, explain the significance of the quote—why does the quote matter in the context of the reading. Provide some insight into the quote, that is, how do you interpret the quote and why.
Tybalt: What, drawn and talk of peace? I hate the word/As I hate hell, all Montagues and thee. Have at the coward! ( ).
Benvolio is attempting to stop the fighting between servants at the beginning of the play, but Tybalt comes upon them and expresses his disgust for the idea of ending the fight.
Characterization: This quote exemplifies the personality of the fiery Tybalt. He is a fighter and enjoys instigating brawls. This quote is significant because it establishes the Tybalt’s feelings for the house of Montague. Shakespeare emphasizes this feeling when Tybalt mocks Benvolio for talking of peace with his sword drawn. Tybalt seems very likely to break the Prince’s edict of peace because his temper. Perhaps this will prove important later.