Theater Paper

FINAL SPRING 2015 – PROMPT for TAKE-HOME FINAL

In your final paper, I will be looking for your ability to grasp and comprehend the notable and as well as the more subtle elements contained in the book, lyrics and stage performance of Spring Awakening, the Musical. The final exam will be a written assignment in which you will compare and contrast the emotional and intellectual differences or similarities in the themes presented in Spring Awakening set in the 19th century using our21st century for the comparisons. Are the issues confronting teenagers in 19th century society still confronting today’s teenagers in our contemporary society?

Use any and all information available that is applicable. Your research must be cited in a bibliography on a separate page, using MLA format.

Grammar, organization of thoughts and quality of content will all be considered in grading. PLEASE USE WRITING RESOURCEs AVAILABLE TO YOU FOR HELP.

2-3 page essay with a cover page

1.5 spacing

Stapled

DUE: Wednesday, May 13, 2015 in CPAC, Room 230. I will be there between 4 and 6:45 p.m. to accept papers. You may enclose your paper protected in a manila envelope and slide it under the door prior to that date. Be sure to print CAROLE WYAND on the envelope.

Address the following in your essay:

· Sexuality, religion, education, parent and child communication, gender, and shame are all themes found in Spring Awakening, the Musical and the original play.. Do you believe these themes presented remain as relevant today as they were when the play was first written? Does the material run parallel to what teenagers of today are feeling?

· Social taboos are also an integral part of the action of the play; key examples being Moritz’s suicide and Wendla’s abortion. How are these themes relevant to today?

· 19th century Germany believed that masturbation could lead to the practice of homosexuality. How is our understanding of this issue different today?

· Does setting the adaptation to contemporary music, bring the piece into the 21st century?

· Why is the title of the play Spring Awakening? Explain your answer and support it referencing the musical/play.