DTS1160

The places of performance

R Fensham

6 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites DTS1060/ENH1060

Objectives Students successfully completing this subject should have developed an awareness of the significance of social and theatrical context in any performance event. They should have acquired some historical knowledge, should be aware of a range of dramatic traditions, changing performance contexts and performance processes, and also be in a position to attempt performance analysis and make informed critical comments.

Synopsis The subject examines, through a study of a range of texts from different periods, the relationship of written text to performance as it is influenced by the theatrical context for which the play was written. The analysis of the performance place will be, in the first instance, primarily historical. But the consideration of some modern reworkings will involve a concern with performance processes and traditions in themselves, and with the procedures by which they might be defined and clarified.

Assessment Examination (2 hours): 40%
* Essay (1500 words): 30%
* Seminar tasks including one performance analysis: 30%

Prescribed texts

Bond E Lear Methuen, latest edn
Shakespeare W King Lear Penguin, latest edn
Tourneur C The Revenger's Tragedy in Three Jacobean tragedies Penguin, latest edn