ENH2230

Shakespeare: interpretations and transmutations

Proposed to be offered next in 1999

P Ayres

8 points
* 2.5 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prohibitions: ENH2630/ENH3630

Objectives On successfully completing the subject, students should have a comprehensive knowledge of how Shakespeare has been transmitted and `filtered' through critical interpretation and theory, and through adaptation to other art forms such as film and opera.

Synopsis This subject explores a range of Shakespeare's plays, focussing on the various critical interpretations and theories which have been applied to or imposed upon them by critics and directors over the years, including Freudian, structuralist, feminist, Christian, nationalist, imperialist, and so on, and how these reflect changing times and fashions as well as political, philosophical or cultural biases. In addition, consideration will be given to the ways in which Shakespeare's texts have regularly been adapted to the spirit of the times - re-writings of particular scenes and endings for eighteenth-century productions, for example - and assimilated into other cultural forms, including, in the nineteenth century, opera (Verdi's Macbeth and Othello), and in the twentieth century, film.

Assessment Two essays (2000 words): 30%
* Essay (2500 words): 50%
* Seminar paper (1500 words), including participation: 20%

Prescribed texts

Shakespeare W Richard III Signet
Shakespeare W Henry V Signet
Shakespeare W The Merchant of Venice Signet
Shakespeare W Antony and Cleopatra Signet
Shakespeare W Macbeth Signet
Shakespeare W King Lear Signet
Shakespeare W Othello Signet
Shakespeare W The Tempest Signet