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Year 11 - English

'Romeo and Juliet': exploring the influence of religion on society

Romeo and Juliet: the tragedy of societal expectations

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore the tragedy of societal expectations in 'Romeo and Juliet'. They look at the problem through a range of different prisms, including the tension between individualism and the status quo. They plan and write an essay on Shakespeare's presentation of societal expectations.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explore the influence and presentation of religion through the character of Friar Lawrence in 'Romeo and Juliet'.

Key Notes

  • Arguably, Friar Lawrence represents religion in 'Romeo and Juliet'.
  • Throughout the play, we see Friar Lawrence influencing the lives and behaviour of characters.
  • Potentially, we might see Shakespeare as criticising the influence of religion on society through Friar Lawrence.
  • Furthermore, we might see Shakespeare as criticising Catholicism through Friar Lawrence.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • influence: the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behaviour of someone or something
  • represent: to give a clear understanding or impression of: to describe or present clearly
  • deceit: the action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth
  • Catholicism: the faith, practice, and church order of the Roman Catholic Church

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • That we can only interpret Friar Lawrence as a mentor figure to Romeo.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Arguably, Friar Lawrence represents religion in 'Romeo and Juliet'. Throughout the play, we see Friar Lawrence influencing the lives and behaviour of characters.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'influence'

the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behaviour of someone or something.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: That we can only interpret Friar Lawrence as a mentor figure to Romeo. Correction: Though Friar Lawrence offers Romeo advice, we might also see his portrayal in a more negative light.

More Lessons In This Unit

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