Cymbeline, King of Britain: The perfect introduction to classic literature for children (20 Shakespeare Children's Stories Book 6)
#6 in 20 Shakespeare Children's Stories (Easy Classics) Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Cymbeline, King of Britain is a romantic play interwoven with war and tragedy. It revolves around Cymbeline and his daughter, Imogen, who marries a lowborn gentleman, Posthumous against her father's wishes - and much to the displeasure of the evil stepmother. After their marriage, Posthumous is banished from Britain and Imogen is held as a prisoner in the palace. This story is part of a 20 book set by Sweet Cherry Easy Classics, which adapts classic literature into stories for children, introducing these timeless tales to a new generation. Additionally, macaws are colorful parrots from the rainforest known for their intelligence and ability to crack nuts and seeds with their bony tongues.
Discussion points
What do you think Cymbeline felt when he discovered the truth about his daughter?
How do you think forgiveness plays a role in the story?
What lessons can we learn from the mistakes that characters made in the book?
How did the characters show bravery?
Why is it important to be honest like some characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring scenes to life, which helps in making the story more relatable and engaging for children.
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to ask your child how they think a character is feeling, or what they might do next.
Relate themes or situations from the book to real-life experiences that your child might have faced to help them connect with the story.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite character, and ask why they like that character, fostering a deeper understanding of character traits.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book, boosting their imagination and reinforcing their understanding and memory of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of trust and honesty
Explanation: In 'Cymbeline, King of Britain,' characters who are honest and trustworthy are rewarded, while deceit leads to complications and strife.
Real-World Application: Children learn that being honest improves relationships and builds trust with others in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous challenges and betrayals, yet demonstrates resilience by overcoming adversities.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up easily in the face of difficulties, whether it's at school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: The consequences of jealousy and revenge
Explanation: The story showcases how jealousy and seeking revenge can lead to negative outcomes and personal turmoil.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of managing feelings of jealousy and avoiding vengeful actions to maintain harmony in their social circles.
Example Lesson: Understanding forgiveness and reconciliation
Explanation: Characters in the story learn to forgive and reconcile, highlighting the themes of redemption and healing.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to practice forgiveness, fostering a more supportive and understanding environment among peers and family members.
Example Lesson: The significance of leadership and responsibility
Explanation: King Cymbeline's role emphasizes the weight of leadership and the responsibility it entails to make just decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding of leadership in their roles in group activities or student leadership positions, recognizing the importance of fair and responsible decision-making.