ENGH 322: Introduction to Shakespeare

ENGH 322-001: Shakespeare: Comedies and Histories
(Spring 2012)

12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR

Section Information for Spring 2012

When we think of comedy we usually think of something funny--and Shakespeare's comedies definitely are. But comedy can also have serious political and cultural significance. In this course we'll consider both what's funny in the comedies (which were called comedies not primarily because they were funny, but because they have happy endings) and why the genre of comedy also bears more serious meaning. When we read Shakespeare's history plays--the plays we might expect to find serious--we'll discuss, among other questions, why Shakespeare decides to make some of his greatest history plays funny. More generally, we'll talk about the history of Shakespeare's stage and texts, life and politics in Shakespeare's England, and contemporary stagings of the plays. Throughout, the course will emphasize close reading of these great plays.

Tags:

Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Introduces the works of English poet and playwright William Shakespeare. Studies a broad range of Shakespeare’s writings, including at least one comedy, one tragedy, and one history. Offered by English. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Satisfaction of University requirements in 100-level English and in Mason Core literature.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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