1. Hamlet and The Lion King
Devin Wootton
EDU 262

2. An Introduction to Hamlet and basic Character Types
Goal: Students will brainstorm traits of main characters from The Lion King.
Procedure: For each of the following slides students (in groups of 2-3) will brainstorm facts about the character portrayed (about 2 minutes per slide)
The facts listed will be used to make correlations between the characters of The Lion King and the characters of Hamlet

3. Simba Hero of the story, or Protagonist Prince
His father is murdered by his uncle
Exiled (forced to flee)
Is uncertain if he should challenge his uncle
Eventually returns and takes revenge
Dynamic Character
Just like….

4. Hamlet

5. Mufasa King Murdered by his brother Just and kind ruler
Beloved by his people and
Family
Static Character
Just like….

6. Old Hamlet

7. Scar Villain or Antagonist Brother of the king Jealous
Murders the king and
takes over the throne
Exiles Simba
Static Character
Just like….

8. Claudius

9. Sarabi Mother of Simba Loves her son
Serves both Mufasa and Scar as king
Dynamic Character or Static Character depending on interpretation
Just like…

10. Gertrude

11. Timone and Pumba Funny Tell Simba “hakunamatata” (No Worries)
Not very smart
Friends of Simba
Stock Characters
Just like….

12. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern

13. Zazu Assistant to the king Windbag (Talks a lot) Always worried
Stock Character
Just like….

14. Polonius

15. Nala Loves Simba Childhood friend Brings Simba back Confidante
Just like….

16. Ophelia and/or Horatio
As we read the play and watch the film it will be come clear why both of these characters relate to Nala. The stories are not an exact match. Be aware that the first paper we write for Hamlet will be about one of these two characters

17. Teacher Notes
Find out how many of your students have seen The Lion King
Group students who have with students who have not
Have groups write down their facts and traits before revealing those on each slide
Make sure students add the bold words on each slide to their notes