Shakespeare's London: A Guide to Elizabethan London (Sightseers)
Sightseers Series
on Goodreads (19)
What’s inside...
In a travel guide format, presents a look at the sites and society that existed in London during the time of William Shakespeare. Young readers can delve into the enthralling world of Elizabethan London in a travel guide that provides a bevy of travel tips, from visiting the royal menagerie at the Tower of London to attending a service at St. Paul's Cathedral.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some differences you noticed between London today and Elizabethan London as described in the book?
Why do you think people lived the way they did in Shakespeare's time?
What kinds of jobs or roles did people have in Elizabethan times? Which job would you want if you lived then?
Can you imagine how daily life in Elizabethan London might have influenced Shakespeare's plays?
What did you find most surprising or interesting about the customs and places in Elizabethan London?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on a specific aspect of Elizabethan London to encourage your child to express their views.
Use a map of modern London to compare with locations mentioned in the book, enhancing the child's geographical and historical understanding.
Consider watching a short scene from one of Shakespeare’s plays mentioned in the book. Discuss how the setting of Elizabethan London might have influenced the story or characters.
Invite your child to draw or describe their favorite scene or location from the book, then discuss their choice in detail to deepen comprehension and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Historical Understanding
Explanation: The book takes young readers on a journey through Elizabethan London, providing rich historical context and insight into the era in which Shakespeare lived and wrote.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a deeper appreciation for history and its impact on modern culture, encouraging them to explore more about different historical epochs and their significance.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: By exploring the sights and sounds of London during Shakespeare's time, the book introduces readers to diverse societal norms and practices of the Elizabethan age.
Real-World Application: This broadens a child’s understanding and acceptance of different cultural backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and respect in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Literary Appreciation
Explanation: Through the lens of Shakespeare’s own city and life, the book enhances children's recognition and appreciation for classic literature and its timeless influence.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to delve into classic literature, which can improve their language skills and foster a lifelong love for reading.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Children are prompted to think critically about how the physical and cultural setting of Elizabethan London influenced Shakespeare's work.
Real-World Application: Enhances a child’s ability to connect historical and literary contexts to understand complex narratives, improving both analytical skills and academic performance.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The descriptive portrayal of historical settings in the book sparks imagination, allowing children to creatively visualize the past.
Real-World Application: Stimulates creative thinking and visualization, essential skills that aid in problem-solving and artistic expression in their everyday life.