Blood Relations Lesson Plan

Reflect on the dichotomy of quiet vs. noise in this first section of the play, especially around Emma’s entrance.

Students might notice that noise “upsets” Emma, enough that even Lizzie's friend knows it. They may also note how quiet vs. noise may represent more broadly being silenced vs. having a voice, reflecting on how Emma speaks about these interchangeably, and inquiring into what larger social expectations might be referenced here (“Emma: Don’t talk like that./ Lizzie: I’ll talk as I like./ Emma: We’re not going to fight, Lizzie. We’re going to be quiet and have our breakfast!”). Lizzie, students may observe, picks up on the (conscious or unconscious) symbolism in...