Graduate students will include in their papers and presentation reference to select works of Shakespeare criticism. In addition to these reading and writing requirements, let me highly recommend that students consider Shakespeare from a performance perspective. Floor ten of the Library has in its holdings a complete video library of the BBC Shakespeare. Most students profit from reading the text in conjunction with viewing the performance. Individual viewing is not encouraged because of the durability of the video tapes.
Select videos are also available for video rental as well.
I will, for most plays, use the BBC video as we lecture and discuss, but I will only show bits and pieces that have relevance to my comments and to the discussion of the play under consideration. Ideally the student should view the play before the quiz and before classroom discussion. I enjoy and promote lively discussion in class. Indeed, it is essential to good reading and good writing. In order to have a spirited and interesting class, it is crucial that students be present.