To prepare ourselves, Alex and I read Charles and Mary Lamb's version of Twelfth Night from Tales of Shakespeare which you can download free here. I know it is a book used by many who follow Charlotte Mason's teachings, but this was the first time we've used it. I thought it was a great retelling of the story. It took about 30 minutes to read.
A few nights later, we read Twelfth Night for Kids by Lois Burdett. We continue to enjoy this series which includes letters and drawings by Ms. Burdett's young students, many who are 7 to 9 years old.
We had never been to this particular theater and enjoyed the intimacy of the small room. They had a full house (it seats 99) and even had to move in extra chairs.
Twelfth Night is a comedy about a male and female twin whoo are shipwrecked and separated. Each twin believes the other is dead. The female, Olivia, ends up posing as a man to make a living. It is a complicated story of misplaced love. Olivia falls in love with her boss, but he thinks she's a man. The lady he is in love with falls in love with Olivia, thinking she is a man. It is a complicated story which finally untangles at the end.
I also want to remind you of Jimmie's "Shakespeare for Children" Squidoo. She has lots of great ideas, links, etc!
I also want to remind you of Jimmie's "Shakespeare for Children" Squidoo. She has lots of great ideas, links, etc!
We are studying 12th Night this year as well (it's our first Shakespeare play). Thus far, we've only read the Bruce Coville version but plan to read several more as well as watch an animated video... all to build enthusiasm & understanding for attending a live production this summer at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. I can't wait!
ReplyDeleteTiffany keeps telling me that I need to offer more classic literature to Cade. But tales like these are often too romantic for him. He can't stand all the kissing. Was there a lot of kissing in the online version?
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