Rethinking Shakespeare: Beyond the Bard
University of Exeter International Summer School
Key Information
Campus location
Exeter, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
4 weeks
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
GBP 3,750 **
Application deadline
01 May 2024*
Earliest start date
02 Jul 2024
* Late applications may be accepted but are not guaranteed
** Programme fees include accommodation, social programme, all academic content and registration, and programme transport for the social programme and any field trips.
Introduction
This module aims to explore the processes by which Shakespeare’s plays came into existence, how they achieved their unique status in English literature and culture, and how the image of the genius ‘Bard’ problematizes understandings of Shakespeare’s plays as part of Shakespeare’s own world and our own. Following global commemorative celebrations of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death in 2016, the module will include examining issues that surround memorializing the dead, both in Shakespeare’s own time and our own.
The module focuses its attention upon A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet and The Tempest. Through a combination of play-specific classes, performance workshops, and classes dedicated to the details of historical context students will examine:
• the contexts of the plays’ initial production and reception
• the implications of Shakespearean and modern performance practices in understanding Shakespeare’s plays
• myths that have become associated with Shakespeare , the origin of such myths and their influence over contemporary engagements with Shakespeare’s plays
Guided by experts from Exeter University’s English and Drama Departments, students will encounter the nuances and richness available within the field of Shakespeare Studies, which a static image of the isolated Bard simply does not allow.
The course includes going to see a play at the world famous Globe Theatre in London which will help you put performance theory into practice and visit the home of Shakespeare himself; Stratford Upon Avon!
- Self Catering Accommodation Provided
- 6 Day trip to London
- Social Programme including day trips and evening activities
- Application Deadline 1st May 2024
- £3,750
Gallery
Program Outcome
The module focuses its attention upon A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet and The Tempest. Through a combination of play-specific classes, performance workshops, and classes dedicated to the details of historical context students will examine:
- the contexts of the plays’ initial production and reception
- the implications of Shakespearean and modern performance practices in understanding Shakespeare’s plays
- myths that have become associated with Shakespeare, the origin of such myths and their influence over contemporary engagements with Shakespeare’s plays
Guided by experts from Exeter University’s English and Drama Departments, students will encounter the nuances and richness available within the field of Shakespeare Studies, which a static image of the isolated Bard simply does not allow.
The course includes going to see a play at the world-famous Globe Theatre in London which will help you put performance theory into practice and visit the home of Shakespeare himself; Stratford Upon Avon!
English Language Requirements
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