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Unit in Theatre History Curriculum

Unit 3: Medieval Theatre

Created by Drama Teacher Academy

3 lessons theatre history

We journey from the Dark Ages to the emergence of Medieval drama. The liturgical or religious drama appeared in the churches as a means of religious instruction. Along the way, production moved from being written in Latin to the local vernacular and then outgrew the churches. The guilds then took over the production responsibilities. The plays came in four types: mystery, miracle, morality, and mummers plays. These can be remembered as the four Ms of Medieval drama.

Start here
The overview lays out structure of this unit, provides essential questions, time management tips, and reference to SEL, Distance Learning, and assessment strategies.
  1. 1
    Lesson 1
    Set the Stage for Medieval Theatre
    In this lesson, students will be introduced to the socioeconomic background to set the stage for Medieval theatre. As a response to what they’ve learned, students will create original theatrical moments and read a modern version of one of The Canterbury Tales stories.
  2. 2
    Lesson 2
    Medieval Theatre
    In this lesson, students are introduced to the origins of Medieval theatre, create a feast of fools’ moment, and put together their own version of The Second Shepherd’s Play.
  3. 3
    Lesson 3
    Culminating Activity
    Students will take everything they’ve learned and put together a mystery play cycle.

Standards Addressed

Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade 6

Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade 7

Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding - Grade HS Proficient

Organize and develop artistic ideas and work - Grade HS Accomplished

Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade 6

Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding - Grade 6

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 7

Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade 7

Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade 8

Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade HS Proficient

Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding - Grade HS Proficient

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