The Highwayman - Lesson 6 - Got the Plot Worksheet

The "Got the Plot?" worksheet is a literary exercise designed to test students' comprehension of "The Highwayman," a poem that weaves a tale of love and betrayal. The activity is structured to be completed after reading up to stanza nine, where learners are asked to fill in the blanks to summarise the story so far. The narrative begins on a dark and stormy evening with a mysterious highwayman making his way to an old inn. His purpose is a secret rendezvous with the innkeeper's daughter, named Bess, with whom he shares a forbidden love. However, their romance is not without complications, as another character, Tim, harbours feelings for Bess as well.

Tim, envious of the highwayman and driven by his own affection for Bess, eavesdrops on the couple's intimate conversation. He learns of the highwayman's promise to return to Bess after his nocturnal escapades. Unable to contain his jealousy, Tim betrays the highwayman by informing the authorities of his whereabouts. The soldiers then arrive at the inn and cruelly bind Bess, using her as bait in a ruthless trap intended for her beloved highwayman. The worksheet encourages students to delve into the plot and understand the motivations of each character, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow in this tragic romantic narrative.