Shakespeare: On the Page and in Performance

Course Description

"Shakespeare: On the Page and in Performance: Othello and King Lear" is an enthralling journey into two of Shakespeare's most powerful and emotionally charged plays. This course, offered by WellesleyX, invites students to explore the literary brilliance and theatrical impact of Othello and King Lear. Delve into the reasons behind these plays' enduring significance in literary history and their ability to captivate audiences worldwide. This course uniquely combines textual analysis with performance studies, offering a comprehensive understanding of Shakespeare's works both as literature and as living theatre. Occasional appearances by actors will provide practical insights into bringing these timeless texts to life on stage.

What You Will Learn

• Gain a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare's genius and global popularity
• Develop skills in combining literary and historical analysis with theatrical approaches
• Understand Shakespeare's continued relevance in contemporary society
• Analyze Othello and King Lear in depth
• Explore the evolution of Shakespearean performances from the Elizabethan era to modern times
• Learn how to interpret Shakespeare's works through both textual and performative lenses

Prerequisites

No specific prerequisites are required for this course. However, a basic understanding of English literature and an interest in theatre would be beneficial.

Course Content

• Introduction to theatre in Shakespeare's time
• In-depth analysis of Othello
• Comprehensive study of King Lear
• The historical context of Shakespeare's plays
• Performance history of Othello and King Lear
• Theatrical interpretation and adaptation of Shakespeare's works
• Contemporary relevance of Shakespearean themes
• Practical demonstrations by actors on bringing Shakespeare's text to life

Who This Course Is For

This course is ideal for literature enthusiasts, theatre lovers, students of English, aspiring actors, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of Shakespeare's works. It's suitable for beginners with no prior Shakespeare study, as well as those looking to enhance their existing knowledge.

Real-World Applications

• Enhanced literary analysis skills applicable to various forms of literature and media
• Improved understanding of theatrical production and performance
• Developed ability to interpret and analyze complex texts
• Increased cultural literacy and appreciation for classical literature
• Enhanced public speaking and performance skills through understanding theatrical techniques
• Improved ability to recognize and analyze themes in contemporary media and literature
• Better understanding of human nature and societal issues as explored in Shakespeare's works

Syllabus

This course offers a unique blend of literary study and theatrical exploration, promising to bring Shakespeare's words to life in ways you've never experienced before. Join us on this exciting journey through two of the Bard's greatest masterpieces!