This week we learned more about the characters in the drama 12th Night by William Shakespeare. We also had the opportunity to be audience members to Mrs. Blake’s Group Interpretation performance of an adaptation of the story Maleficent.  As you ponder over these two examples of drama, please choose one to write an in-depth reflection.

You need to write at least 150 word reflection on any of the prompts listed below.  Make sure your reflection begins with a strong thesis.  Elaborate with details and visual descriptions so your readers can truly understand your thoughts.

Reflection Options:

• Pick a character from 12th Night and share your first impressions of this character.  What were your thoughts of the character as  we learned more about the character’s actions, thoughts, words, and personality traits?  As the play progressed, how has your first impression of this character changed?  How does viewing the movie version after we listen and analyze the script enhance or ruin the play for you? Explain the reasons for your change of opinion of this character without giving away too much of the plot. Of course, you want to persuade the readers of your blog to want to read/listen/watch the play for themselves.

• Reflect on your expectations of the Group Interpretation performance of Maleficent. If you saw the movie or read the novel, what were you expecting?  If you did not read or view the story prior to the performance in the Little Theater, what were you expecting?  What were your thoughts of the performance?  Did you have any favorite parts?  Explain your thoughts of the cast and how they performed.  Remember they have no costumes, no props, and only one simple set; how do you think they did on telling the story or interpreting the story for all of us in the audience?

• Reflect on how first impressions may trigger people’s initial judgments to be focused on stereotypes.  Think about movies you have seen, books you have read, interactions you have had between people, stories you have heard on the news or through social media, etc.  How do stereotypes ruin people’s positive perceptions?  How can stereotypes affect people’s first impressions?  Think about a time you met someone and what you expected from that person based on their race, gender, ethnicity, religion, clothing, speech, etc?  Is it right to make those assumptions?  Why are people prone to make those initial judgments?  How do some people prevent the temptation of those stereotypes and actually take the time to get to know a person before making a judgment?  Is it easy/difficult in our current society? Think about expectations people have based on someone’s gender, race, ethnicity, educational background, social status, etc.  How do we eradicate these stereotypes and give every person a fair chance at meeting them and really looking at who they are, without labeling them?

Remember, be honest, be thorough, be specific, be clear, and be kind! (Any relevant images would add more audience appeal to your blog post, so feel free to add)

Maleficent

12th Night