Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit provides an opportunity for in-depth study of a specific non-Western performative culture or group of practices, or a tradition outside the scope of mainstream theatre. The practice(s) will be analysed in their social and cultural context, with consideration, where appropriate, of historical, spiritual, functional, aesthetic and performative roles and qualities. Methodologies and concepts of Performance Studies will be given practical application.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course students will:

1. have performed an in-depth study of a specific performance tradition or group of practices from a non-Western culture or a tradition outside the theatre mainstream;
2. display applied understandings of the main concepts of Performance Studies;
3. demonstrate an understanding of the possible varieties of relationships between cultures and their performances;
4. develop a sense of the cultural relativity of their own and others' everyday practices, becoming more open-minded and understanding of the diversity of cultural practice;
5. have demonstrated an ability to employ techniques of ethnographic writing.

Assessment

Group class presentation (15 minutes equiv. 450 words): 10% + Individual ethnographic description (minimum 1350 words): 30% + Essay (2250 words): 50%
Participation (equiv. 450 words): 10%

Chief examiner(s)

William Peterson

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Anthropology
Communications
Comparative literature and cultural studies
Theatre
English
Performance
Sociology

Prerequisites

1st year sequence in Theatre