Outschool
Open currency, time zone, and language settings
Log In

Using Hamilton to Build English Literature and Language Skills

In this one time class class, we will discuss the literary, musical, and theatrical elements that made the show Hamilton an excellent work of art.
Christina Broadway
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(570)
Popular
Class

What's included

1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

Love it or hate it, the musical Hamilton is undeniably one of the finest works of art of this century. But what makes art and writing good? How can one show attract so much attention, elicit so many emotions, and leave such a powerful impact on a generation? 

In this course, we will answer these questions and more. Students will learn the elements that make art and literature great such as motif; repetition; appeals to ethos, logos, and pathos; humor; and timeless cultural relevance. 

By exploring the following questions, students will gain a better understanding of how to create great works of art themselves as well as deepen their appreciation for Hamilton. 
-Why did the writer choose to "spoil" the ending in the first song? What is the spoiler paradox?
-Why did the writer choose modern rap music for characters from 300 years ago? How does syntax, word choice, and rhyming strengthen characterization?
-How does the writer use motifs to show each characters' evolution?
-Who is Pavlov, and what does he have to do with this?!
-What are foils, symbolism, and foreshadowing, and how are they used in the musical?
-How do you create interesting, complex characters rather than boring, flat ones? 


This class will be lecture and discussion-based. It will be fun, challenging, and enlightening. I look forward to seeing you there!

Learning Goals

Students will learn crucial literary terms and elements needed for success in high school English, standardized tests, and college entrance exams.
learning goal

Other Details

Supply List
Students are expected to have already watched the musical and familiarized themselves with the characters.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
4.9
570reviews
Popular
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Texas Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
I have a bachelor's degree in English Literature and a decade of experience teaching high school English.  

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
Share

$12

per class

Meets once
55 min
Completed by 43 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-17
3-15 learners per class

This class is no longer offered
About
Support
SafetyPrivacyCA PrivacyLearner PrivacyYour Privacy ChoicesTerms
Financial Assistance
Get The App
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
© 2025 Outschool