Grade 8 Humanities classes transformed their classroom into a stage, bringing the Middle Ages to life through creative and engaging performances. The students took on the challenge of exploring historic events from the Middle Ages, writing scripts, and performing them to teach their classmates about cause and consequence. The assignment, which combined research, creative writing, and a generous dose of Middle School energy, showcased the depth of learning and creativity that happens in SMUS classrooms.
Witch Trials, Plagues, and Peasant Revolts
The students tackled a range of topics; each performance was a blend of historical accuracy and dramatic flair, with students stepping into the roles of accused witches, plague-stricken villagers, and rebellious peasants.
One group reenacted the trial of Maria Elizabeth von Adenberg, a fictional noblewoman accused of witchcraft in 17th-century Germany. The performance highlighted the hysteria and injustice of the witch trials, with students playing the roles of Maria, her accusers, and even the judge. The tension was palpable as Maria defended herself against false accusations, only to turn the tables by naming others as witches to save herself. The performance ended with a thought-provoking discussion about the consequences of mass hysteria and the dangers of unreliable accusations.
Another group took on the Black Death, portraying the devastating impact of the plague on medieval society. Through their performance, students explored the causes of the plague—such as trade routes and unsanitary conditions—and its consequences, including the collapse of the feudal system and the rise of fair wages for peasants. The emotional depth of the performance, particularly in scenes where characters grappled with loss and despair, left the audience reflecting on the human cost of historical events.
The Peasants’ Revolt was brought to life with equal passion, as students depicted the growing dissatisfaction among medieval peasants and their eventual uprising against the nobility. The performance highlighted the stark divide between the wealthy elite and the struggling lower classes, culminating in a dramatic battle scene where peasants armed with pitchforks and torches stormed the castle. The students cleverly wove humour into their script, with one noble character quipping, “With what? Pitchforks and bad breath?”—a line that drew laughter and applause from fellow students.
A Lesson in Cause and Consequence
Beyond the entertainment value, the performances were a masterclass in understanding cause and consequence. The students’ scripts demonstrated a deep understanding of these concepts, as they seamlessly integrated historical facts with creative storytelling.
For example, the Black Death performance not only depicted the immediate suffering caused by the plague but also explored its long-term effects, such as the shift in power dynamics between peasants and nobility.
The classroom buzzed with excitement as students cheered for their peers and engaged in thoughtful discussions about the historical events they had just witnessed.
As the final performance wrapped up and the students took their bows, it was clear that this project had left a lasting impression. These students had not only learned about the Middle Ages—they had brought it to life in a way that was both educational and unforgettable.
