Exploration of Shakespeare

2013

Supplementary Plays

Comedies, Tragedies, and Histories

A Comedy of Errors

A physically humorous comedy of mistaken identity, slapstick humor, and comedic timing.

Twelfth Night

Another comedy of mistaken identity, this time taking place in an aristocrat's mansion after a shipwreck.

The Taming of the ShrewAn unconventional

love story following Petruchio's wooing of the headstrong Katherina, who attempts to resist his advances. Meanwhile, her sister, Bianca, is being pursued by other suitors in the town.

Othello

The tragedy of Othello's downfall by his treacherous friend Iago, who convinces Othello that his love, Desdemona, is cheating on him.

Julius Caesar

Shakespeare's interpretation of Julius Caesar's rise to power and subsequent murder by his colleagues, including his friend, Brutus.

Supplementary Films

Contemporary Adaptations

The Lion King

Based on Hamlet, this movie tells the story of Simba's efforts to reclaim his kingdom from his evil uncle, Scar.

She's the Man

Based on Twelfth Night, this film tells the story of Viola, who pretends to be a boy to play football.

10 Things I Hate About You

Based on Taming of the Shrew, this film is the story of an up and down relationship between a charming boy and a headstrong girl.

West Side Story

A musical adaptation of Romeo & Juliet, this classic film is the story of two rival gangs in New York City.

O

Based on Othello, this film tells the story of a star basketball player who unravels after believing his girlfriend is cheating on him, thanks to his scheming best friend.

King Lear or Macbeth

Staged versions of each play, produced by PBS, starring Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen in iconic roles.

The Rules ...

• If you are reading a comedy, you should also choose a comedy for your film

• If you are reading a tragedy, you should also choose a tragedy for your film

• If your film choice is an updated version of your play, you must examine how the modern version maintains/changes the theme