According to the video, was John Nash generally well-liked by his colleagues before the onset of his mental illness?

No, many found him arrogant and insensitive.

Describe how the delusions experienced by John Nash in reality differed from their portrayal in 'A Beautiful Mind'.

In reality, Nash's delusions were less logical and more chaotic than the Communist conspiracy depicted in the film. He believed aliens were sending him messages and that he was the Pope.

Explain the nature of Alicia Nash's relationship with John Nash after their divorce.

Alicia divorced John but continued to support him as a friend, even allowing him to live in her home to prevent him from becoming homeless.

What was the real reason the Nobel Prize committee sent someone to meet with Nash?

The Nobel Prize committee sent Jörgen Weibull to assess whether Nash was stable enough to be awarded the prize.

Hollywood History Fact or Fiction

11th GradeSocial Studies45 min

aligned to Rh.11-12.6

Learning Objective

I can evaluate the accuracy of historical events portrayed in Hollywood movies.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

9 min

A Beautiful Mind: How TRUE Is The Movie To The Real Story?

Cinematic Truths

Guided Notes

9 min

Key concepts students will learn:

•
In reality, John Nash's delusions involved aliens sending him encrypted messages through the New York Times and believing men in red neckties were part of a secret communist organization.
•
After his first release from the mental hospital, Nash wandered around Europe, declared himself a refugee, and tried to renounce his U.S. citizenship.
•
The movie inaccurately portrays Nash's recovery as solely due to his logic and his wife's love; in reality, many people with schizophrenia experience a natural remission of symptoms as they age.

Practice

14 min

8 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

“Name one specific detail about John Nash's life that was changed or fabricated for the movie "A Beautiful Mind," according to the video.”

Teacher Guide

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Answer keys for all questions
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Hollywood History Fact or Fiction

Learning Objective

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

Guided Notes

Practice

Exit Ticket

Teacher Guide

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