1. How does Rosalind treat Orlando? 2. What sort of freedom does Rosalind enjoy when disguised as a man? 3. Do you believe that Orlando truly loves Rosalind?
Understand
Find quotes in the extract to match each of the following statements. I live on the outskirts of the forest with my sister. Women’s faults are dreadful. There is a man in the forest carving ‘Rosalind’ on the barks of trees. You are well-presented and seem to love yourself more than any other. I am the one who is in love. Tell me the cure.
Explore
3 3
1. What evidence is there to suggest that Orlando really loves Rosalind? 2. In your view, does Rosalind enjoy being in disguise?
3. Consider a female character in your studied play. Explain this character’s experience of freedom – do they enjoy or lack freedom? (a) Name your play, the playwright and the character you will discuss.
(b) Write about the freedom that this character lacks or enjoys. Quote from the play to support your answer.
4. As a class, choose one female character from your studied play. One student should take on the role of this character. The student will take the hot seat, answering inventive questions from the rest of the class.
Investigate
Find out more about the lives of women in Elizabethan England, when Shakespeare wrote many of his plays. Make a note of the main differences between the lives of women now and then. Share your findings with the class.
Create
Imagine you could disguise yourself beyond recognition. Write a diary entry following your day in disguise.
Describe your new appearance and persona. Give an account of what you did while in disguise. Say what you learned from being in disguise.
