Lesson Plan: William Shakespeare’s tragedy Julius Caesar

Background Information:

Lectures include background information on William Shakespeare himself, Elizabethan England, and the tragic hero.

Reading/Studying the Play:

Before actually discussing the play, I introduce students to the major theme of Julius Caesar using a scenario activity called "The Soldier's Dilemma." The activity is completely removed in terms of time and place from the setting of Julius Caesar. As we progress through the play, I refer to the discussion generated by this activity.

After providing background information about the Roman Empire and the first triumvirate, I ask for volunteers who are willing to read a part. I make sure that all students have a chance to read, but I only give the larger parts to students who want them. All parts are assigned for an entire act. All of the readers stand or sit at the front of the class, and we "act" out the scene as much as possible. (Which means that we use the printed stage directions to enter or exit the room and to decide which characters sit/stand near each other, etc. We especially emphasize the staging for the murder scene in Act III.) I stop periodically to point out and/or explain certain passages. After reading each act, we usually watch the film version of the act to give the students a visual representation of the play.

After reading and watching each act, the students break into their study guide to answer the study guide questions before moving on to the next act.

If time allows, the letter and dialogue writing activity is a good way to develop a better understanding of the characters and their motivation. It also provides an opportunity for more writing practice.

Assessment & Follow-Up:

I've used several different types of assessments with this play. My favorite is the performance adaptation project. Its many facets incorporate the multiple intelligences. I've also used essay assignments, including one that incorporates "The Soldier's Dilemma."

When time allows, I also like to show my students the Kenneth Branagh production of Much Ado About Nothing. High school students do not often have the opportunity to experience Shakespeare's comedy. Because it is so well acted, this particular production is easy to understand despite its use of traditional Shakespearean language. As such, it is a nice follow-up to my lesson about language. Most students are also familiar with the actors (Denzel Washington, Emma Thompson, Keanu Reeves, Michael Keaton), which initially captures their attention and allows the film to work its magic.

Enrichment & Homeschool Use

This lesson plan was originally designed for use in a classroom setting consisting of approximately 27 to 29 students; however, the assignment can easily be adapted for smaller classrooms and for homeschool use.

Please see the links below for adaptations for specific activities and assignments.