Romeo and Juliet 1.1 Word Nerd: "canker"

The transcript discusses the etymology of the word 'cancer', tracing it back to an ulcerous disease that erodes healthy tissue. It then explores how Shakespeare used the term 'canker' metaphorically in two ways: to describe rust on swords, likened to a malignant skin disease, and to depict the destructive hatred between feuding families, which corrupts society like cancer affects surrounding tissue.

What is the origin of the modern word 'cancer'?

• A historical event

• A type of plant

• A celestial body

• An ulcerous disease

In Shakespeare's first metaphorical use, what does 'canker' describe?

• A family feud

• A celestial event

• Rust on old swords

• A type of flower

How does Shakespeare's first metaphorical use of 'canker' relate to disease?

• It resembles a malignant skin disease

• It is a cure for illness

• It is unrelated to disease

• It describes a healing process

What societal issue does Shakespeare's second metaphorical use of 'canker' address?

• Feuding family hatred

• Environmental pollution

• Technological advancement

• Economic disparity

In what way does the second metaphorical use of 'canker' affect society?

• It has no impact on society

• It corrupts society like a cancer

• It spreads like a beneficial trend

• It heals societal wounds