English: The Tragic Hero

"In this media collection, students explore the use of supernatural elements within William Shakespeare’s plays, focusing particularly on Macbeth, Hamlet, and The Tempest ... supernatural beliefs during the 16th and 17th centuries are examined, and the supernatural elements which drive the plot of many of Shakespeare’s plays are identified."

Explore how Shakespeare uses language in his works. This gallery includes examples from Hamlet, Henry V, Macbeth, Richard II and The Tempest and features actors and scholars discussing and debating the meaning of Shakespeare’s words. The videos highlight the way in which different phrases can have varied meanings, and illustrate how Shakespeare’s words come to life when read aloud. The collection also includes a video segment that shows where Shakespeare gained inspiration for his writing and one that raises questions about what version of Hamlet contains Shakespeare’s original text.

"In this media collection, students explore the use of supernatural elements within William Shakespeare’s plays, focusing particularly on Macbeth, Hamlet, and The Tempest ... supernatural beliefs during the 16th and 17th centuries are examined, and the supernatural elements which drive the plot of many of Shakespeare’s plays are identified."

Explore the theme of loss within Shakespeare's plays, particularly focusing on Hamlet, Twelfth Night, and Richard II. Whether it is loss of a loved one, loss of power, or loss of identity, ... examine how Shakespeare’s characters cope with loss. Did Shakespeare’s own life (and loss) influence his writing?

Explore the use of soliloquy as a device to reveal character and advance plot. How does using soliloquy perhaps more truthfully expose character than other devices like dialogue. In addition, focus particularly on the famous soliloquy in Hamlet, "To be or not to be," how and why are the topics of his speech best explored through soliloquy?

Explore how Shakespeare uses language in his works. This gallery includes examples from Hamlet, Henry V, Macbeth, Richard II and The Tempest and features actors and scholars discussing and debating the meaning of Shakespeare’s words. The videos highlight the way in which different phrases can have varied meanings, and illustrate how Shakespeare’s words come to life when read aloud. The collection also includes a video segment that shows where Shakespeare gained inspiration for his writing and one that raises questions about what version of Hamlet contains Shakespeare’s original text.

The lovers begin "talking in sonnets" when they meet and their language of martyrdom predicts their tragic love affair.

Explore the famous balcony scene in Romeo and Juliet. Examine the dialogue, learn what it really means, and decide which character is driving the scene — and the play — forward.

Dive deeper into the "if only" moments that result in the suicides of Romeo and Juliet. Examine the language used during the young lovers' death scene and consider the role of fate in their deaths.

Learn about the Arthur Brooke poem that inspired William Shakespeare to write Romeo and Juliet. See Globe Theatre actors perform scenes from the Brooke poem to understand Shakespeare's creative inspiration.

Learn about Mercutio's role as a comedic foil to Romeo and how his death marks a turning point in the play.