Shakespeare's Major Tragedies

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course will examine the four tragedies upon which Shakespeare's reputation most securely rests: Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth. Our objectives will be to acquire an in-depth knowledge of Shakespeare's four major tragedies; to become familiar with early modern English and develop an appreciation of the importance of linguistic history; to examine tragedy as a dramatic genre, as an experience, and as a cultural preoccupation; and to learn about Shakespeare's age and his cultural legacy. Along with our modern editions of Shakespeare, we will read Christopher Haigh's Elizabeth I and a number of recent scholarly essays. Work will include several short written assignments, a midterm, a final, and a paper of 7-10 pages.