Learning Guide: Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

Eight people, two of them with guitars, stand and sing in a line. — Photo of Rob Lindley, Charence Higgins, Nate Burger, Lorenzo Rush Jr., Erik Hellman, Amir Abdullah, Kanesha Kristine Reed, and Blake Hamilton Currie by Michael Brosilow.

Check out these resources for academics, enthusiasts, and educators to support your learning and viewing of Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.

Background

Synopsis and Characters: Familiarize yourself with the who, what, where, and how—at least, as much as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern can deduce!
Rewind, Refresh: Brush up on Hamlet to better understand Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.
Historical Background, Dramaturgy, and Design: Explore the history behind Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, its dramaturgy, and the design of Court Theatre’s production.

Activities and Resources

Vocabulary Activity: Explore the concepts of absurdism and existentialism to better understand the philosophies underpinning Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
Glossary: Familiarize yourself with helpful-to-know terms and references from the play, compiled by Dramaturg Marissa Fenley.
Pre-Show Improv Activity: Delve into a few improv games to put students in the shoes of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern! This activity guides students to participate in Questions and Party Quirks.
Post-Show Writing Activity: Get creative with a Fish Out of Water writing activity, geared towards classrooms but suitable for learners of all ages.
Post-Show Discussion Activity: Dive into discussion questions to explore themes and impressions of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.