Introduction

This hunt is designed to introduce students to Shakespeare's three great tragedies. Students will become familiar with aspects of conventional tragedy and also specific elements that make each play unique.

Guiding Question

What makes a Shakespearean tragedy?

Questions

1. From what historical references are each of these three plays drawn?
2. What is a tragic hero? According to Aristotle, what elements define a tragic hero?
3. Which of the three plays is considered the most accomplished according to most critics? Why?
4. What sets Hamlet apart from the other two more conventional tragedies?
5. Who is Shakespeare attempting to please in terms of audience in each of the three plays? Why?
6. How do each of the three plays deal with the theme of "madness"?
7. Which play did British poet Shelley laud as the "most perfect specimen of dramatic poetry"?
8. Why did King Lear not gain the popularity that Hamlet and Macbeth achieved?
9. Why does Shakespeare include elements of the supernatural in these plays? How does it function in each play?
10. Which play sets the precedent as a true "cinderella" story? Why?

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Internet Resources

Historical References
The Tragic Hero
According to the Critics
Hamlet
Shakespeare Biography by All Shakespeare
Intoduction to Shakespeare's Work
Aristotle's Tragic Hero
The Tragedy of Hamlet
King Lear
Shakespeare's Audience
More about Shakespeare's Audience
Tragicomedies
Performance of King Lear
Reviews of King Lear
Shakespeare's Tragedies
Cindarella and King Lear

Activities

1. Create a historical timeline of all Shakespeare's plays, including these three.
2. Recreate the Globe theater, complete with a hierarchy of seating.
3. Create a royalty timeline that is appropriate to each play.
4. Illustrate Shakespearean theatrical dress.
5. Write a paper about the roles of women in Shakespearean drama.

Sid Sherrill, Teacher, developed this treasure hunt.

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