Class Dramatic Reading Workshop II

The unit emphasizes critical engagement with Shakespeare’s language, themes, and dramaturgy, while encouraging the application of contemporary theoretical approaches. Students are introduced to early modern cultural and political contexts, including issues of gender, power, race, and identity, which remain relevant in modern reinterpretations and performances of Shakespeare’s works. Throughout the unit, students will develop skills in close reading, argumentation, research, and creative interpretation. They will also gain insight into the continuing cultural influence of Shakespeare’s drama and the varied ways his texts are adapted for stage and screen today.

Not applicable

Module 1: Introduction to the Historical and Literary Context of Shakespeare Module 2: The Merchant of Venice Module 3: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Module 4: Hamlet Module 5: Antony and Cleopatra Module 6: Conclusion and Final Discussion

The teaching of Shakespearean drama can present unique challenges for modern learners, including linguistic complexity, historical distance, and perceived inaccessibility. In response, this course adopts a range of innovative methodologiesdesigned to enhance engagement, deepen understanding, and promote critical and reflective learning. These methods support diverse learning styles and align with contemporary pedagogical best practices in literature education.

Shakespeare, William. The Merchant of Venice. Edited by John Drakakis, Arden Shakespeare, Third Series, Bloomsbury, 2010. Shakespeare, William. A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Edited by Sukanta Chaudhuri, Arden Shakespeare, Third Series, Bloomsbury, 2017. Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Edited by Ann Thompson and Neil Taylor, Arden Shakespeare, Third Series, Bloomsbury, 2006. Shakespeare, William. Antony and Cleopatra. Edited by John Wilders, Arden Shakespeare, Second Series, Bloomsbury, 1995. The Norton Shakespeare (ed. Stephen Greenblatt et al.)