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Unit in Theatre History Curriculum

Unit 6: Theatre of the Renaissance

Created by Drama Teacher Academy

5 lessons theatre history

In this unit, we return to Western theatre and to Italy, where we will witness the birth of the Renaissance and the discovery of linear perspective. Then we travel on to the Golden Age of Spanish theatre. We will pass by the Elizabethan Golden age (we’ll cover it in the next unit) and end the Renaissance journey by discovering French neoclassicism and the Rules of Drama.

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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
    The Birthplace of the Renaissance
    In this lesson, students will be introduced to Renaissance theatre. They will complete a research project on the sociopolitical and cultural background for the birthplace of the Renaissance: Italy.
  2. 2
    Lesson 2
    Italian Renaissance Theatre
    In this lesson, students will be introduced to three lasting influences of Italian Renaissance theatre: the proscenium theatre, pastoral plays, and opera. Students will create a modern pastoral scene and do a scene sing through.
  3. 3
    Lesson 3
    Spanish Golden Age
    In this lesson, students will do a research project on the sociopolitical and cultural background of Spain and learn about the plays and playwrights of this era. They will also explore a monologue from the play Life Is a Dream.
  4. 4
    Lesson 4
    France and Neoclassism
    In this lesson, students will do a research project on the sociopolitical and cultural background of France. They will then learn about neoclassicism as well as the plays and playwrights of the era. Students will create a neoclassicism scene and then “break the rules” by rewriting it in the style of Molière.
  5. 5
    Lesson 5
    Culminating Activity
    Decide how students will demonstrate their knowledge of the unit. A variety of activities are provided. You can choose to have all your students do the same activity, or allow students to choose how they demonstrate their knowledge. Rubrics are provided for each activity.

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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