Hamlet 1.3 Word Nerd: Husbandry

The transcript explores the term 'husbandry,' originally referring to land management on estates. Over time, it evolved to mean the male partner in a marriage. Historically, husbandry involved managing household finances and agriculture, a meaning that persists today in 'animal husbandry.' In Shakespeare's era, it also implied thriftiness and financial management.

What was the original meaning of the term 'husband'?

• A household servant

• A farmer

• A manager of a large estate

• A male partner in a marriage

What activities did 'husbandry' include in early modern economies?

• Trading goods

• Cultivating land and raising livestock

• Teaching children

• Building houses

Which phrase still uses the term 'husbandry' today?

• Marital husbandry

• Animal husbandry

• Financial husbandry

• Household husbandry

In Shakespeare's time, what additional meaning did 'husbandry' have?

• Being thrifty and managing finances

• Managing household servants

• Organizing social events

• Cooking and cleaning

How did the meaning of 'husband' evolve over time?

• From a farmer to a household servant

• From a land manager to a male partner in marriage

• From a male partner in marriage to a land manager

• From a household servant to a land manager