Media Eugene O’Neill + Long Day’s Journey Into Night
Eugene O'Neill is called "The Father of American Theater" for good reason: He was the first American playwright to write serious plays and treat drama as a serious art form.
In this 9-12 lesson, students will explore Louisa May Alcott’s novel, Little Women. Students will practice melodramatic movement by rewriting and performing Jo’s five-act melodrama, “Operatic Tragedy.”
Students will:
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Video
Teachers should read Little Women by Louisa Alcott. Familiarize yourself with Jo March’s five-act play, “Operatic Tragedy” and the genre of melodrama. Use the to locate resources for building background knowledge.
Students should be familiar with the story of Little Women. Students do not need to have seen examples of melodrama before the lesson.
Modify handouts, text, and utilize assistive technologies as needed. Provide preferential seating for presentations and space for movement during the plays. Allow extra time for task completion.
Hugo: “What ho, minion! I need thee!”
Hagar: (singing) “Hither, hither, from my home, Airy sprite, I bid thee come!”
Writer - records the information
Director - oversees the production and keeps the group on task
Composer - writes the background music or tune for any songs in the act
Spokesperson - reports to the class about the group’s activities
Designer - oversees costumes, props, and set pieces
Actors - act out the play and serve as a writer, director, composer, or spokesperson prior to the performance
Original Writer
Mary Beth Bauernshub
Editor
JoDee Scissors
Updated
November 20, 2021
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