APPENDIX (Adapted largely from the Teacher's Manual for the Study of English Classics, by George L. Marsh) HELPS TO STUDY THE DRAMA In what did the drama originate? Describe briefly the miracle plays, or "mysteries,' telling where they were performed, by whom, and what, in general, was their subject matter (pp. 12, 13). What elements were contained in the miracle plays that had an influence toward the development of comedy? What were moralities? Interludes? What foreign influences contributed to the development of the Elizabethan drama (pp. 15, 16)? Name several of Shakspere's predecessors in the drama. Who was the greatest of them? Describe briefly the theater of Shakspere's day (pp. 22, 23). The characteristics of a Shaksperean audience. Did Shakspere write his plays for posterity or to please an Elizabethan audience? SHAKSPERE'S CAREER When and where was Shakspere born? What can you say as to his education (p. 18)? His occupations before he went to London? What do we know about his early years in London? What were his first dramatic efforts (p. 20)? What other literary work, besides the writing of plays, did he do? Learn the general characteristics of Shakspere's work during each of the four periods into which it is divided, and the names of representative plays of each period (pp. 24-27). Perry Pictures 73-75 have to do with Shakspere and his home. JULIUS CAESAR-EXTERNAL FACTS What is the probable date of composition of Julius Caesar? Its chronological relation to the series of Shakspere's greatest tragedies? When was it first published? What is the source of its plot? Describe Shakspere's general method in handling this source (pp. 31-33). PROGRESS OF THE PLOT What is the dramatic purpose of I, i (note, p. 159) ? In I, ii, what is the effect of the soothsayer's warning? What is the purpose and effect of the flourishes and shouts while Brutus and Cassius are speaking? What does Antony's appearance at the beginning of the scene indicate as to his importance in the play? Is Cassius supposed to hear Caesar's remarks about him (11. 192 ff.)? How should the characters be arranged on the stage at this time? State in outline what is accomplished in I, iii. What is the dramatic purpose and effect of the portents? In II, i, what is the purpose of lines 101-11 (note, p. 170) ? Whose judgment is better as to Antony, Cassius's or Brutus's (p. 77)? What later conflict of judgment resembles this (III, i, 232)? Why is it intimated in lines 193, 194, that Caesar may not come to the Capitol on the Ides of March? In II, ii, why is a second account of the prodigies given? |