A study of the mystery plays, morality plays, and interludes of the 14th and 15th centuries. Analysis of texts is combined with consideration of theatrical production in light of the ideological, religious, and historical contexts of the plays. After work on some principal texts and contexts of medieval and Renaissance drama, the course turns to the production and public performance of a full-length play from this period. The semester-long study and rehearsal process provides experience in ensemble acting and textual interpretation. Spring A practical course in directing, culminating in a program of scenes and one-act plays presented to the campus community.
Students generate theory from contemporary scripts and mind-bending performances.
The class reads a few plays from before 1956, but focuses mainly on the plays of the last 40 years, studying how British playwrights expressed the concerns of their changing society. History is seen as a performative way to construct identity. Includes readings by documentary playwrights like Brecht, Emily Mann, and Caryl Churchill. Theory and Drama See Philosophy courses for description. Requirements include both academic and creative projects.