For this week’s discussion, address one of the following prompts.
Translation: choose one of the assigned sonnets and demonstrate your understanding of the content by updating the Elizabethan English to the present day: re-write/paraphrase your sonnet into modern English. Your modern translation can be humorous or more literal, and it doesn’t have to rhyme, but either way, it should be a line-for-line rewrite of your chosen sonnet. After providing your rewrite, offer some thoughts on what you’ve learned about Shakespeare’s poetry by writing your own version. Try not to tell classmates beforehand which sonnet you’ve chosen in your main post- just re-write the assigned sonnet of your choice and let classmates try to identify it as the week continues. If no one has guessed your sonnet by the end of the week, you should provide the answer in a reply!
Getting Defensive: What is the benefit of studying Shakespeare, and/or his sonnets, here in the 21stcentury? After all, don’t we have present-day poems and songs that communicate some of the same ideas are more easily understood? Defend the inclusion of Shakespeare in general, and these sonnets in particular, in the curriculum. Then, explain which of these sonnets was your personal favorite, and share a line or two from any of these assigned poems that you think is particularly meaningful or lyrical.
Be the Teacher: After viewing this week’s online learning resources, explain to the class what some of the important distinctions are between Renaissance literature and earlier literature/time periods from weeks 1-7. Your post should include one quotation from any of Shakespeare’s poetry, as well as one quotation from any of this week’s linked online learning resources, with in-text citations and works cited entries as needed.
https://www.collegesidekick.com/study-guides/britlit1/english-renaissance
