The Good and the Badde is a morality handbook from 1616. It pays particular attention to the roles society expected of women. These are useful in studying the preconceived notions of Shakespeare's male and female characters and their relationships to each other.
The good and the badde, or Descriptions of the vvorthies, and vnworthies of this age by Breton, Nicholas, 1545?-1626? London : Printed by George Purslowe for Iohn Budge, and are to be sold at the great south-dore of Paules, and at Brittaines Bursse, 1616 STC (2nd ed.) / 3656
View available documents
P. 27: A Virgin/A wanton woman
P. 28: A wanton woman/A quiet woman
P. 29: A quiet woman/An unquiet woman
P. 30: An unquiet woman/A good Wife
Teacher Ideas
Jill Karnop / C.M. Russell High School, Montana / English
Using a two-column chart, find the comparative segments of "a virgin" and "a wanton woman" and list them side by side. Then, draw three conclusions about male expectations of females, the reality of anyone keeping these expectations, and note repeated ideas. Students should then attempt to put female characters in a column and discuss why it is difficult to do so.
Megan Salomone / Byram Hills High School, New York / English
Using Breton's text as a starting point, list the characteristics of a virgin/whore on the blackboard. Then have students search Othello for quotations about Desdemona. The quotations will demonstrate how quickly Othello changes his perception of his wife. This activity will work with other plays as well.
Damian Bariexca / Henterdon Central Regional High School, New Jersey / English
Turn the tables and apply the same (or similar) standards to a male character. Ask students to consider who it is easier to categorize and why. Then, examine these characters as types and as to how they contribute to the action of the play. Discuss the differences in the way male and female characters are treated and attempt to account for these differences.
Maryann Jessop / Lacey Township High School, Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey / 12th grade English
I have my students compare these stereotypes with the characters from The Taming of the Shrew to see how they do and don't fit the characters in the play.
