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ED2EN7-Shakespeare and the Modern World

Module Provider: Institute of Education
Number of credits: 10 [5ECTS credits]
Terms in which taught: Summer
Module Convenor: Mr DN Jones
Pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2008/9

Email:

Aims:

  • To understand the ways in which Shakespeare and Shakespearean texts impact on present institutions
  • To understand the impact of social and historical background to the interpretation of Shakespeare's plays
  • To develop analytical skills regarding interpretation of text

    Assessable learning outcomes:
    By the end of this unit, you will be expected:

  • to identify some of the ways in which Shakespeare, and Shakespearean
    texts, are appropriated by cultural institutions - and to be aware of the effects those forms of appropriation can have upon the creation of textual meanings, and the interpretation of Shakespeare's plays
  • to recognise the importance of the social and historical background to an understanding and interpretation of Shakespeare's plays, both at the 'moment' of their writing, and at the time of their production
  • to be aware of the relevance of selected plays to contemporary debates on such controversial topics as: nationalism and patriotism, racism, legal abuses, the power of governors and the judiciary, and sexual harassment
  • to analyse selected texts with sensitivity, and with some understanding of the ambiguities of Shakespeare's language
  • to display an awareness of some of the ways in which the text on the page is affected by the conditions of dramatic performance

    Additional outcomes:

    Outline content:
    The unit will consider the re-negotiations and re-interpretations of Shakespeare in different media (comparing, for example, the Olivier and Branagh film versions of Henry V) and explore the role of literary criticism in constructing a Shakespeare who is seen by some critics as the upholder of traditional, conservative values, and by others, as the spokesman for radical causes. We will look closely at three plays: The Merchant of Venice, Measure for Measure, and Henry V.

    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    The course will be taught through three hour sessions, with a half an hour break midway through. The time will be divided into lecturing, and pair, group or whole class discussion. Time outside the sessions will be required for viewing of videos of the plays studied.

    Contact hours:

      Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures
    Tutorials/seminars     30 
    Practicals      
    Other contact (eg study visits)      
    Total hours     30 
    Number of essays or assignments     1 
    Other (eg major seminar paper)      

    Assessment:
    Coursework

    There will be one coursework assignment of approximately 3000 words.

    Relative percentage of coursework : 100%

    Examinations: None.

    Requirements for a pass: 40%

    Reassessment arrangements:
    An alternative coursework assignment will be set, which will receive a maximum of 40%.

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