English 43 - Spring, 2015

Introductory Topics in Drama

Topic: Introduction to Shakespeare

Class Information

Instructor: Dolan, Frances
CRN: 52828
Time: TR 10:30-11:50
Location: 55 Roessler

Description

This class is an introduction to Shakespeare as a cultural phenomenon, an historical person, and a body of work. We will read five plays, which I have selected because their language and plots are reasonably accessible yet the issues they tackle remain engrossing today (cannibalism, revenge, political upheaval and assassination, witchcraft, love magic, domestic violence, and murder) and they conjure up gorgeous language, weird people, and riveting scenes. Lectures will draw on a wide range of resources to help students understand the plays and how they engage with the world—-both in Shakespeare’s time and in our own. In the course of the quarter, students will sharpen their skills as critical, enthusiastic readers and effective writers. While this is a lecture course, there will be opportunities for discussion.

Grading

Grading: 1st paper (15%); 2nd paper (20%); Midterm (20%); quizzes (15%); short assignments (10%); final exam (20%).

Texts

Titus Andronicus, Shakespeare
Taming of the Shrew, Shakespeare
Richard II, Shakespeare
Midsummer Night's Dream, Shakespeare
Macbeth, Shakespeare