Modern Shakespeare Adaptation
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Students will produce a written script for a modern adaptation of a Shakespearean comedy/tragedy. Students will present their modern adaptations of scenes from a Shakespearean comedy/tragedy. The presentation should include blocking and evidence of preparation. The themes/ideas of the play should be present, but should be retold in a new, innovative and creative manner.
Romeo and Juliet II.ii (Original Text):
JULIET
My ears have not yet drunk a hundred words
Of that tongue's utterance, yet I know the sound:
Art thou not Romeo and a Montague?ROMEO
Neither, fair saint, if either thee dislike.
JULIET
How camest thou hither, tell me, and wherefore?
The orchard walls are high and hard to climb,
And the place death, considering who thou art,
If any of my kinsmen find thee here.ROMEO
With love's light wings did I o'er-perch these walls; And what love can do that dares love attempt;
Therefore thy kinsmen are no let to me.
For stony limits cannot hold love out,
Modern Translation (Student Script):
Act II
JULIET
I’ve seen you around, haven’t I? You’re Romeo, right?
ROMEO
I’m whoever you want me to be.
JULIET
How did you get in here? Seriously, the walls are like, really high. And if my dad catches you in here… he’s going to totally flip out.
ROMEO:
I climbed over the wall, it’s no big deal. But seriously, you think a wall is going to keep me out? Girl, I’m like your Edward, nothing’s going to keep me from my Bella.
Requirements:
- Each group will consist of 5-6 people.
- The script must be typed and a copy must be provided at the time of performance.
- Use school appropriate language that is commonly used today.
- The play does not need to be translated line for line; however, make sure the important lines and details are translated into your script.
- Each group member must contribute to the translation of the script, as well as the performance of the scene.
- A program for the performance must be made which includes who is playing each role, the scenes listed, and a page that describes the production and its specific elements.
Related Files
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Shakespeare Interpretation Handout
shakespeare_interpretation_student_handout_honors1.pdf 47.868 KB (Last Modified on December 5, 2016) -
Shakespeare Interpretation Handout
shakespeare_interpretation_student_handout_honors2.pdf 47.868 KB (Last Modified on December 5, 2016)