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Year 11 - English

'Romeo and Juliet': exploring the perception of sin and societal expectations

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 perception of sin in 'Romeo and Juliet' and how it relates to societal expectations.

Key Notes

  • By taking their own lives, Romeo and Juliet are committing a religious sin.
  • Arguably, Juliet perceives the sin of bigamy as a greater sin than taking her own life.
  • Through this, we might suggest that Shakespeare has positioned Romeo and Juliet's marriage as religiously sanctified.
  • Alternatively, we could say that Juliet's perception of sin has been influenced by societal expectations of women.
  • Arguably, both interpretations link the perception of sin to societal expectations.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • sin: the offence of breaking, or the breaking of, a religious or moral law
  • religious sin: a transgression against divine law that results in lasting punishment from God
  • sanctified: to make something or someone holy
  • societal expectations: the beliefs and norms that a society holds about how individuals should behave and act
  • bigamy: the act of entering into a marriage with one person while still legally married to another

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Adding in an alternative interpretation weakens your argument.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

By taking their own lives, Romeo and Juliet are committing a religious sin. Arguably, Juliet perceives the sin of bigamy as a greater sin than taking her own life.

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

the offence of breaking, or the breaking of, a religious or moral law.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Adding in an alternative interpretation weakens your argument. Correction: As long as your alternative interpretation supports your overall argument then it will strengthen your argument.

More Lessons In This Unit

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