Introduction

It's time to head for the further reaches of cyberspace. Using the Web allows you to discover much more than you may have ever known possible. Below is a list of questions about Romeo and Juliet, the Globe Theatre, and the life of William Shakespeare. Surf the Internet links on this page to find answers to the questions. Don't forget to go after the Big Question. To begin, first copy the questions and then paste them onto Microsoft Word. Then type in your answers on Word as you find them. To switch back and forth, click on the dash in the upper right hand corner of the screen, NOT ON THE X. Don't forget to save your work on Word. Feel free to explore the web sites and see all they have to offer. Do not limit yourself to just finding the answers to these questions. Have fun!

Questions

1. If you were to visit Verona, Italy today, what places could you visit that deal with the lives of Romeo and Juliet? Keep in mind that there is no evidence that the couple ever lived. These places are only tourist attractions, but they provide a good picture of the setting.
   
   
2. Why was the original Globe Theatre dismantled and moved across the Thames River?
   
   
3. Take a virtual tour of the New Globe Theatre by clicking on 'Building the New Globe.' Describe both the interior and exterior of the Globe Theatre. When was the original Globe Theatre built?
   When was it rebuilt?
   
   
4. Where did Shakespeare go to school? To what extent was he educated? Be specific.
   
   
5. To answer the next questions, click on 'Some plays explored' and then on 'Romeo and Juliet.' What was the average age of marriage in Shakespeare's day?
   What were the views of Friar Lawrence and Elizabethan Society regarding the use of herbal medicines?
   
   
6. Describe what the men and women in Shakespeare's time might have worn. You may copy and paste your favorite costume into Microsoft Word.
   
   
7. If you were to go to Shakespeare's home town, you could visit the church where he was baptised and buried. What does it say on his gravestone? What else could you see in Stratford-upon-Avon that pertains to him?
   If you were to go there this summer, when could you see Romeo and Juliet performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company? (Hint-Click on 'Shakespeare' for a list of companies that perform Shakespeare's plays.)
   
   
8. As you know, the setting Shakespeare creates is based on real places. Approximately how far is Verona from Mantua? Mantua is written 'Mantova' on the map. Use the scale at the bottom of this page to make your estimate.
   How far is Verona from Venice? How far is Verona from Rome?
   
   
9. What kind of dances might Romeo and Juliet have participated in at the party where they met? Describe in detail.
   
   
10. What are some of the dishes they might have had at the party or in every day life?
    
    

The Internet Resources

• Map of Italy
• Shakespeare's life and information on Romeo and Juliet
• Timeline of Shakespeare's Life
• A Romeo and Juliet Itinerary
• Globe Theatre
• The life of William Shakespeare
• Renaissance Cuisine
• Renaissance Dance
• Globe Theatre and Timeline
• Costume Guide

The Big Question

Considering everything you have learned about Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet, and the Globe Theatre, why do we still enjoy seeing Romeo and Juliet performed today? Why does Shakespeare's life still capture our interest? Be specific in supporting your ideas.