In Shakespeare’s plays, we encounter themes of power, love, revenge, sacrifice, and forgiveness. These themes are played out by strong characters that challenge us to ask whether their actions are justified. Using the unforgettable characters of Shakespeare alongside Lost Tools of Writing II, students will contemplate justice by learning to write the judicial address. New tools learned in Level II equip students to consider evidence, motivation, and laws to determine the appropriateness of punishment. Ultimately, the student will be learning to search for the truth, listen to the opposition, and disagree with respect.

Students will also learn how to wrestle with Shakespeare’s plays and study the clues he provides to better understand his work. These clues are tools that can be applied to any Shakespeare play. Students will build a toolbox to help them read, understand, and love Shakespeare.

Covering the categories of tragedy, comedy, romance, and history, we will read The Tempest, Henry V, Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. LTW Level II will bring Shakespeare’s characters to life.

I will be using texts from the Folger’s Shakespeare Library, but students may use any edition.