Shakespeare Today: Romeo and Juliet - Theme of Gender

The video explores the impact of gender roles in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It highlights how both Romeo and Juliet defy traditional gender expectations in a patriarchal society. Juliet challenges her submissive role by expressing her desires and love for Romeo, while Romeo contrasts the aggressive masculinity of other male characters. The video also discusses the consequences of patriarchal attitudes on both men and women, ultimately showing Shakespeare's complex exploration of gender dynamics.

What societal structure influenced the expectations of men and women during Shakespeare's time?

• Democratic society

• Matriarchal society

• Patriarchal society

• Egalitarian society

How does Juliet initially conform to her expected gender role?

• By refusing to marry Paris

• By openly defying her father

• By speaking respectfully to her mother

• By running away with Romeo

What literary device does Juliet use in her soliloquy to express her desire for Romeo?

• Alliteration

• Simile

• Personification

• Metaphor

Why does Juliet refer to the dagger as 'happy'?

• Because it is a family heirloom

• Because it is a symbol of wealth

• Because it is a gift from Romeo

• Because it symbolizes her freedom

What is Samson's attitude towards women in the play?

• Supportive and encouraging

• Objectifying and dismissive

• Respectful and kind

• Indifferent and neutral

How does Romeo's attitude towards masculinity differ from Tybalt's?

• Romeo is more aggressive

• Romeo is more peaceful

• Romeo is more indifferent

• Romeo is more violent

What does Mercutio criticize about Romeo's behavior?

• His arrogance

• His violent nature

• His calm submission

• His dishonesty

What does the Prince symbolize in terms of masculinity?

• Aggressive masculinity

• Passive masculinity

• Balanced masculinity

• Indifferent masculinity

What metaphor does the Prince use to describe the hate between the Montagues and Capulets?

• A flowing river

• A raging storm

• A cankered hate

• A burning fire

What does Shakespeare ultimately do with gender norms in the play?

• Completely destroys them

• Reinforces them without question

• Challenges and explores them

• Ignores them entirely