This course surveys the field of theatre scholarship, introducing students to research tools, research methods, critical writing and scholarly values. Discussions include reference to basic texts in dramatic literature and representative research problems. Theatre forms beyond the Western tradition, including ritual drama, Asian classical forms, and recent developments.
Course is centered around a theme, and includes both survey materials and supplementary readings.
May be repeated once. Theorists read might include Aristotle, Plato, Diderot, Rousseau, Nietzsche, Artaud, Brecht, Stanislavski, Grotoski, Barba, Mnouchkine, Suzuki and Zeami. Students address design problems and analyze a topic in design theory in conjunction with readings and instruction. Advanced students may study techniques for revision and the development of material for performances. Some plays may be read or selected for department production.