Unit Overview:
In this unit, students will explore the history and legend of King Arthur, including the symbols and social values expressed by the story of King Arthur. Students will read excerpts from the legend, and view artwork that depicts King Arthur's life and times. In King Arthur: Man or Legend?, students compare King Arthur's persona from the legendary and historic perspectives, and craft an outline for a theater piece featuring the symbolism, characterization, and context they have learned. In Castles and Cornerstones, students will explore the historic importance and function of castles in King Arthur's time, and create a castle of their own design in three dimensions, using found materials. In Chivalry and Courtly Love, students will examine the way the Arthurian ideals of chivalry and courtly love have influenced our modern concepts of love, inspiring students' execution of a short thematic play.
Lesson Overviews:
The Kennedy Center Production of Excalibur leads students to further study about the legend of King Arthur as depicted in stories, poems, and artwork.
This lesson will explore the historic importance and function of castles in King Arthur's time, and introduce students to a general history of castles and architectural terms.
Through exploration of the Arthurian codes of chivalry and courtly love as portrayed in various media formats, students will examine the way in which these ideals have influenced modern concepts of love, friendship, and honorable behavior.
