This workshop begins with a short story about Nelson and his life at sea, told by the education officer. Pupils then make a study of the painting 'The Apotheosis of Nelson'. To help them look closely at the detail in the painting, and to understand the imagery and symbolism used, pupils 'recreate' the picture using props and costumes. By acting out the parts of each character in the painting, pupils learn what each figure represents about Nelson and how this can help us to understand why he was famous.
Pupils then draw their favourite character from the painting, and are given the opportunity to explain why they have chosen this character and the qualities they represent about Nelson.
As a final activity, pupils are shown two letters with Nelson's signature - one written with his right hand in 1793, and the other written with his left hand in 1798. They are given the opportunity to try and copy both of Nelson's signatures, using a quill pen. The workshop concludes with a discussion about how Nelson has been remembered in the years since his death and how his fame has changed over the years. Pupils will also be encouraged to think about why people are remembered and what makes them famous today.
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This session can be delivered as a
Workshop
