This course is an introduction to the works of William Shakespeare, the most celebrated writer in the English language and one of the most important figures in world literary history. It is intended for anyone curious about Shakespeare and/or the college-level study of literature. No previous experience is required or assumed.
We will start with the basics: Who was Shakespeare and why are his works so popular? How might we best approach the challenge of reading him today? Over ten weeks, we will pursue an informed understanding of the major plays and poems both as timeless works of art and as living contributions to cultural, political, and intellectual history. We will familiarize ourselves with some of the essential tools of literary analysis as well as some of the broader principles and uses of humanistic inquiry. Texts will include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, selected Sonnets, The Merchant of Venice, Hamlet, Othello, Macbeth, and The Tempest. Evaluation will be based on participation, two papers, and an exam. Concurrent enrollment in a discussion section is required.