Shakespeare Tragedies Origins and Styles presents the "nuts & bolts" of Shakespearean study in a very interesting and informative way. The program opens with a selection screen where the viewer can pick and choose what he or she wishes to view. I found it helpful to begin at the "Helpful Info" site which highlights general information concerning Shakespeare, his life, his works, and the times he lived in. From there I moved on to "View Program" which started at the beginning and moved through the entire DVD. Other selections included a site to pick and choose individual lessons for review, information about Standard Deviants and additional products, and finally, the "Bard O Later" a comprehensive multiple choice exam. Part I is titled "Who was Shakespeare?" and is divided into three sections. Section A is the "Life and Times of Shakespeare." Section B covers Shakespeare's use of language. Section C reviews Elizabethan drama. Each Section is followed by a short and speedy review with a quiz. Part II "Tragedy" is divided into four main parts. The first explains "What is a Tragedy?" The second discusses "Oedipus Rex." The third reviews the origins of tragedy in the Middle Ages. Part II concludes with a discussion of "Shakespeare and Tragedy." Each section is again followed by a concise review, but the quiz is comprehensive at the completion of the fourth section. The Bard O Later wraps up the whole package and allows the student to evaluate their progress. You may move between all programs at any time as needed. You may also stop and start wherever you choose. You may repeat the quizzes and final exam as often as you wish. Standard Deviants offers this particular program in a "3 pack" combo or as a single selection. To view the plays you will need to purchase the entire set for $53.99. I would recommend doing this as you must be familiar with Shakespeare's works and the DVD's are extremely well done. You must also have knowledge of the "Decasibus Tragedy" from the Middle Ages. Shakespeare Tragedies Origins and Styles was easy to use, very informative, interesting, sometimes humorous, and extremely colorful! It moved along at a comfortable pace. Standard Deviants will definitely bring "freshness" to your studies of Shakespeare giving even the most reluctant student a greater understanding of Shakespeare and his work. Standard Deviants offers a wide array of subjects for study (not just for students)! There are even additional puzzles and games on their website. Take a look at what they have out there and take advantage of one of their FREE offers today!



-- Product Review Submitted by: Teri Lucas, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine