English 365

Winter’s Tale: Response prompt

Due April 20, a response to Winter’s Tale, one page single-spaced (or two pages double-spaced). You may write on either of these options:

Option 1: The country folk of Bohemia are set up, generally, as an “opposite” to the civilized courtiers of Sicilia. At the end of the play, the country folk enter Sicilia, which is, according to many critics, “renewed” at this point. What in Sicilia, or in  Leontes, is cured? How is it cured? Or do you think it is cured? Is this a satisfying ending to this play that “feels” like true regeneration, or does it feel more like an “old wives’ tale” to you?

Option 2: The country folk of Bohemia contrast with the courtiers of Sicilia not only in nationality but in class status. That is, they are shepherds, not courtiers. What traits of theirs contrast to those of the courtiers? Do they share any traits? What, in sum, is the primary attitude expressed by the play itself towards these country folk—admiration? Condescension? Solidarity? Something else? (and if so, what?)