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The Taming of the Shrew 4.4 Word Nerd: “pittance”
This video explores the etymology of "pittance," from its Latin origins related to piety to its medieval use denoting monks' food allowances. It details how the word evolved to mean a small amount and discusses its ironic use in...
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Add and Change
Mr. Griot explains the meaning of the word suffix and teaches about the use of common suffixes, their meanings, and how they change the meanings of words.
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Romeo and Juliet 2.4 Wordplay: “solely singular”
This video unpacks a complex verbal exchange between Romeo and Mercutio from Act 2, Scene 4 of "Romeo and Juliet," focusing on their intricate wordplay and puns. It highlights how Mercutio's jests play with the concept of "solely...
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Romeo and Juliet 1.1 Word Nerd: "vanity"
This video explores the etymology and usage of the word "vanity" in Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." The analysis highlights how a broader historical meaning enriches our understanding of the characters' actions and themes in the play.
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Romeo and Juliet 1.1 Double Meaning: "Sad"
This video explores the dual meanings of the word "sad" in Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," specifically in the context of a conversation between Benvolio and Romeo in Act 1, Scene 1. Viewers will gain insights into how word meanings...
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Use the Keys to Unlock the Meaning
Mr. Griot demonstrates how to use Greek and Latin affixes and root words to understand the meanings of unfamiliar words.
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What Does It Mean and What Does It Mean to You?
Mr. Griot introduces the terms denotation and connotation and discusses the literal and implied meanings of words.
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Use the Context to Get Your Clues
Mr. Griot demonstrates how to use context clues to figure out the meanings of unfamiliar words.
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Denotation and Connotation
Mr. Griot explains the difference between the meanings of connotation and denotation.
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Review for You: Characteristics of Poetry
Mr. Griot explores the characteristics of poetry and figurative language by looking at examples and examining text.
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Connecting the Dots: Sea Turtles and Ecosystem Balance
Discover the vital role of sea turtles in marine ecosystems, where they act as keystone species influencing their environment profoundly. This video shows how their dietary habits benefit other marine life and ocean health, highlighting...
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Macbeth 1.5 Discussion: Lady Macbeth's Language
This video delves into the rich use of figurative language in a brief but potent speech by Lady Macbeth in Shakespeare's "Macbeth." The discussion highlights how Lady Macbeth manipulates words to foreshadow Duncan's impending doom and...
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Macbeth 1.3 Word Nerd: Weird
This video explores the etymology of the word "weird," meaning to turn into or to become. In Shakespeare's time, "weird" referred to having supernatural power to influence or predict events. The video explains how the term evolved into...
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Julius Caesar 5.3 Word Nerd: Success
This video examines the etymology and evolution of the word "success" from its Latin roots in "succedere," meaning to follow or come after, to its modern connotations of achieving a positive outcome. The segment uses Shakespeare's play...
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Julius Caesar 3.1 Word Nerd: Rank
This video delves into the origins and meanings of the word "rank" within the context of Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar." This exploration aids in understanding Shakespeare's nuanced language and its impact on character dynamics and plot...
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Julius Caesar 1.2 Wordplay: “put to silence”
This video explores the nuanced interpretation of the phrase "put to silence" in Shakespeare's use, highlighting the historical context and linguistic evolution surrounding it. This analysis enhances understanding of the political and...
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Julius Caesar 1.1 Double Meaning: "mender of soles"
This video delves into the intricate wordplay of a cobbler's remark in a Shakespearean dialogue, revealing a double meaning that intertwines the cobbler's profession with Christian theology. This layered interpretation serves as an...
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Julius Caesar 1.1 Double Meaning: "being out"
This video provides an insightful analysis of a dialogue between Marullus and a cobbler, showcasing Shakespeare's clever use of language and wordplay. The discussion highlights how the cobbler's response to Marullus's irritation carries...
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Hamlet 1.5 Word Nerd: Luxury
The term "luxury" originates from the Latin word "luxuria," meaning extravagance or excessive indulgence, which in Shakespeare's time often carried a sexual connotation of lustful indulgence. It wasn't until the 18th century that the...
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Hamlet 1.5 Discussion: The question of Gertrude’s Adultery
In this transcript, a discussion revolves around the meaning of the term "adulterate" as used by the Ghost in Shakespeare's "Hamlet." The dialogue explores whether it implies actual adultery between Claudius and Gertrude before the...
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Hamlet 1.3 Word Nerd: Habit
The word "habit" originates from the Latin term for having or holding, traditionally referring to one's demeanor, appearance, or even clothing. In contemporary English, while its usage to denote clothing is largely archaic, specific...
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Hamlet 1.2 Word Nerd: Merely
The Latin root of the word mirely meant pure or unmixed. The original meaning of merely had a positive connotation, it meant completely or totally and that's how Shakespeare uses it here. However, in Elizabethan English it was already...
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Hamlet 1.1 Political Situation in Denmark
In an eloquent speech, Horatio outlines the events preceding the play "Hamlet," detailing the conflict between King Fortinbras of Norway and King Hamlet of Denmark, resulting in Fortinbras' defeat and loss of land. Prince Fortinbras aims...
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Learn About The 72 Counties Of Wisconsin!
Wisconsin has 72 counties, let's learn more about them!