The Two Gentlemen of Verona
20 Shakespeare Children's Stories (Easy Classics) Series
on Goodreads (16,514)
What’s inside...
A story of friendship and how it can overcome all odds, The Two Gentlemen of Verona is another popular romantic comedy by Shakespeare. It is about two inseparable friends, Valentine and Proteus, and how their friendship is affected when they fall in love. Even though their friendship is tested, they deal with their problems and come out better than ever on the other side. Also available as part of a 20 book set, including classics like Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and The Tragedy of Macbeth, this collection is part of Sweet Cherry Easy Classics which adapts classic literature into stories for children, introducing these timeless tales to a new generation.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Valentine
Silvia
Julia
Proteus
Launce
Speed
Thurio
Duke Of Milan
Discussion points
How do the actions of Valentine and Proteus show the meaning of true friendship?
What consequences do both characters face due to their decisions in the play?
Why do you think Shakespeare decided to make the ending of the play a happy one?
How do the different settings in the play, from Milan to the forest, affect the story’s events?
What do you think is the most important message Shakespeare is trying to convey in this play?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by briefly summarizing the plot and main themes of the play to provide context to your child.
Encourage your child to think about how the characters' actions align or conflict with their own values and friendships.
Discuss the concept of loyalty as depicted in the play and ask your child their perspective on what being a good friend means.
Explore the use of different settings and how they influence the mood and decisions of the characters in the story.
Highlight the use of humor and misunderstanding in the play and discuss how these elements create dramatic tension and interest.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The story explores the deep bond between two friends, Valentine and Proteus, and how it is tested when romantic interests come into play. It demonstrates the importance of loyalty in friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and nurture their friendships, understanding the importance of being loyal and trustworthy to their friends in daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The consequences of deceit
Explanation: Proteus's deceitful actions towards Valentine and his romantic interest, Julia, serve as a crucial plot point, illustrating the negative outcomes that result from dishonesty.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of honesty in their relationships and the potential harm that lying can cause to others and themselves.
Example Lesson: The power of forgiveness
Explanation: Despite the betrayal by Proteus, Valentine ultimately forgives him, showing a great act of kindness and forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of forgiving others who may have wronged them, fostering a culture of understanding and compassion in their social circles.
Example Lesson: Understanding true love
Explanation: Through the romantic entanglements and resolutions, the play provides insights into the nature of true love, which is depicted as selfless and forgiving.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and value genuine emotions and relationships, promoting empathy and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-awareness
Explanation: Throughout the play, characters undergo personal growth and come to realizations about their own flaws and strengths, especially Proteus who realizes his mistakes.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to reflect on their own actions and grow from their experiences, helping them to become more self-aware and responsible individuals.