Questions we Can Help you to Answer
Paper Instructions:
M7D1: Much Ado About a Character
Since this module covers two chapters of the textbook, each of which discuss a separate division of the arts (theatre and cinema), it will be practical to focus our activities on a single example which includes both. Also, because of the lengthy nature of cinema, the single example assigned in this module will serve as the basis for both Activities 2 and 3.
Watch the film based on William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, featuring Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson, Keanu Reeves, Denzel Washington, et al. Since the film is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes in length, it might be a good idea to schedule this for as early in the week as possible to allow plenty of time for reflection. Due to the fact that the language used is sixteenth century English, it will be important to make use of the English subtitle feature. This will allow you to read the words and gain additional clarity. Don’t worry; the actors do a marvelous job of getting the meaning across to viewers who have little or no previous experience with Shakespeare.
In cinema and theatrical productions, plot can be described as actions and events driven by characters and circumstances. Choose two of the following significant characters from Much Ado About Nothing: Beatrice, Benedick, Borachio, Claudio, Dogberry the Constable, Don John, Don Pedro (the Prince), Hero, Margaret, Senor Leonato. For the character you select, address the following in your initial post:
Comment on the character’s inner motives and attitudes and how he or she reacts to various circumstances.
Discuss how the character’s actions affect other characters and the overall plot.
How does the character grow as a person? What, if anything, can we learn from him or her?
Your initial post should be 250-500 words in length. Once you have submitted your comments, you should read a minimum of two comments posted by your fellow students. Respond to your peers by critically reading their submissions and addressing the following issues:
How are the character assessments made by your peers valid, based on evidence from the film?
How might your own assessment of character and plot be different from those of your peers?
