Two Gentlemen of Verona

The action of the play plots young lovers against an older generation, such as the Duke and Thurio. Explore the implications of these intergenerational conflicts and the ways in which they develop the play’s thematic interest in The Importance of Loyalty Between Men.

Discuss the inclusion of working-class characters such as Speed, Lance, and Lucetta. How does Shakespeare’s portrayal of these characters differ from that of the noble characters? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Compare and contrast the characters of Julia and Silvia. In what ways are their characters intentionally alike? What important contrasts are there? What insight do these characters convey about The Restrictions of Courtly Love for Women?

Explore the significance of banishment and the life of outlaws within Two Gentlemen of Verona. Do characters behave differently beyond the limits of the city? How does Shakespeare use the setting of the forest to comment on the advantages and restrictions of noble society?

Examine the impact of the ideals of courtly love on the action of the play. How do the expectations of this system guide the characters’ behavior?

Compare and contrast the characters of Proteus and Valentine. How do these men react to falling in love? In what ways do their actions develop the play’s thematic interest in The Fickle Nature of Young Love? What differences does the play suggest about young men and young women in love?

In modern productions of the play, depictions of Proteus’s attack in Act V range from violent sexual assault to an ineffectual chase around the stage. With reference to specific details from the text, how might the ending of the play change depending on the actor’s portrayal of Proteus?

With the definition of theatrical comedies of the Elizabethan era, why is it important to the resolution of the play that Valentine forgive Proteus? What are the implications of this forgiveness for Silvia?