Header Top

Shakespeare takes the stand

Shakespeare takes the stand

by Shannon Dufresne
 

With English teacher Ms. Tonianne Bellomo wearing a judge’s wig and robe, her students put their knowledge of one of Shakespeare’s most well-known plays to the test. After weeks dissecting the tragic play’s themes and characters, the students broke into mock trial teams to argue whether Lady Macbeth was guilty or innocent of the crimes that drove the story’s dark events. It was a dramatic twist on literary analysis, as English 10 students brought William Shakespeare’s Macbeth into the courtroom, complete with visual aids and a judge’s gavel.  

The assignment was the culmination of a comprehensive unit on one of Shakespeare’s most well-known tragedies. Students, divided into prosecution and defense teams, built compelling cases using textual evidence and persuasive arguments, and of course, no courtroom is complete without a judge. Bellomo presided over the proceedings in full costume, setting the tone for a spirited and imaginative experience.


To support their claims, students shared group presentations, delivering their arguments at the front of the classroom. The assignment enabled them to integrate their literary understanding with practical skills, including critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking. “This project was designed to help students practice their argumentative writing and showcase their oral presentation skills,” said Ms. Bellomo. “It also gave them a chance to engage with Shakespeare in a more interactive and memorable way.”

This project was designed to help students practice their argumentative writing and showcase their oral presentation skills."
- Ms. Tonianne Bellomo, english teacher

 


While the verdict may have been up for debate, the impact of the assignment was undeniable. The courtroom drama provided students with a fresh perspective on Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, demonstrating that with a bit of creativity and collaboration, even a 400-year-old play can feel thrillingly alive. In the end, Bellomo proved that when it comes to mastering Macbeth, her students are no strangers to ambition, persuasion, and a little theatrical flair.

 

  • academics

More Connections

Play and Pause Buttons for Slideshow