Course Description

This course examines the history of theatre through close study of the world's greatest plays from the 18th century to the present. Theatre has the potential to make visceral connections with the audience through universal themes. How were these modern and contemporary plays performed then, and how are they performed now?  What are their political, social, and cultural urgencies in each context? How were styles like realism, naturalism, absurdism, expressionism, and postmodernism performed, and why? We will closely read the play texts as well as watch filmed theatre productions.

Putting our study of history into practical application, students will investigate the role dramaturgy plays in preparing an audience to see a classic or contemporary play. We will discuss how these plays appealed to their original audiences, and how they appeal to audiences now. We will discuss the historical, social and cultural circumstances surrounding their initial productions.  What makes a play a “classic”? What makes a play contemporary? What makes a play worthy of a production? What is relevant to consider about the context in which each play was written? What research is relevant and reliable? How can a production of a play benefit from dramaturgical analysis and contextualization? What research aids theatre makers and audience members alike?

This course fulfills the Discovery requirement in the category of Fine and Performing Arts. It also fulfills Writing Intensive requirements. There are no prerequisites and students do not need to have any prior theatre experience.