Introduction “Romeo and Juliet” is a classic play written by William Shakespeare in the early 1590s. During his early career, he wrote mostly histories; writing this tragedy was a leap for him. Understanding his works also helps us understand the history of the time period, as he was highly influenced by Elizabethan culture: the politics, the arts, religion, and the people, in general. “Romeo and Juliet” is well-known and has been reproduced in many formats throughout the centuries since it was written. Film versions have ranged from a classic in 1968, which was true to the original text, to an MTV version, starring Leonardo DiCaprio in 1996. What can we learn from a play written so many centuries ago? Throughout these lessons, students will learn the various lessons Shakespeare attempted to portray in his story of “star-crossed” lovers and how these lessons are still relevant today.Lesson Plan Format Shakespeare as a man, poet, and writer is significant. He was highly influenced by what was happening around him in Elizabethan England. During each session, students will read portions of the play, look at historical context for what was written, delve into the various controversies that surround William Shakespeare and how these relate to his writings and the world today.
