Class Detail

Study of representative works by William Shakespeare. Course topic changes; please see the Class Search for the current topic. Critical approach designations: Canons, Media. Distribution requirements: Poetry, Pre-1750. May be repeated for credit.

From the Instructor: This summer, we will read four of Shakespeare's history plays, the so-called Second Tetralogy: Richard II, Henry IV (Parts One and Two), and Henry V. These plays, which concern the period immediately before the Wars of the Roses (1455-87), were extraordinarily popular among Shakespeare's contemporaries. For them and for us, they raise fundamental questions about the compatibility of virtue and politics, the causes of war, the permanence of institutions (both sacred and secular), the circumstances under which governments may be legitimately overthrown, and the unforeseen consequences of civil strife. To supplement our study of the plays and enrich our discussion about them, we will sample a number of modern productions and adaptations. Assignments will include in-class writing exercises, one short paper, and a take-home final. No knowledge of Shakespeare or medieval history is necessary. All are welcome.

Days & Times	Room	Instructor	Meeting Dates
MW 09:00AM-12:30PM	Remote Instruction	Keilen,S. O'Hare,K.E.	07/26/21 - 08/27/21