Learning Guide: The Lion in Winter

Check out these resources for academics, enthusiasts, educators to support your learning and viewing of The Lion in Winter.

Background

Synopsis and Characters: Read a synopsis of the play, plus character descriptions and information about the setting.
Historical Background, Dramaturgy, and Design: Explore the real history behind The Lion in Winter, its dramaturgy, and the design of Court Theatre’s production.

Pre-Show Vocabulary Activity: Familiarize students with the camp style of The Lion in Winter with this vocabulary activity.
Pre-Show History Activity: Engage students with the world of the Middle Ages, both in Europe and beyond, to build their understanding of what this time period was really like.
Post-Show ‘Connect the Dots’ Activity: Contemplate the connections between The Lion in Winter and other cultural phenomena, past and present! This reflection activity is suitable for learners of all ages.
Post-Show ‘Factors and Forces’ Activity: What divides a family? Take a closer look at the internal and external forces pulling the House of Plantagenet apart at the seams.
Glossary: Learn about the lingo in Lion! Visit this helpful glossary to better understand definitions and allusions that are mentioned throughout the script.
History Alive: Take a stab at bringing history to life! Dive deeper into the timeline of the Plantagenet family and put your own creative spin on these characters and the real history behind them with this all-ages activity.

In Conversation with Ron OJ Parson, Rebecca Spence, and John Hoogenakker: Director Ron OJ Parson discusses The Lion in Winter with Court’s own King Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine – John Hoogenakker and Rebecca Spence, respectively.
Queering the Medieval Family Drama: University of Chicago Professor Leslie Buxbaum considers the relationships in The Lion in Winter, their respective queerness (or lack thereof), and what an audience deems gasp-worthy.
Meet the Cast of The Lion in Winter: Say hello to the cast of The Lion in Winter!