Question:
Medieval England
In The Dream of the Rood, there are profound differences in how the crucifixion is told and portrayed to the audience. What do you see as the differences?
How are these differences influenced by the rising towns and cities and the fact that laymen did not read Latin or have direct access to religious tracts and the bible? Please use references about these pieces to support your readings.
Both The York Play of the Crucifixion and The Second Shepherd's Play were live events performed on the streets of towns. Do some research and look at the Shambles in York, which survives to today as the oldest medieval street in Britain.
Find out what stores and businesses where located in the Shambles during medieval times.
What surprises you about The Shambles? How does it expand your understanding of Medieval England?