11:15a-12:30p TR (30) 3 cr

This course will explore seven of Shakespeare's later plays in considerable depth and from a variety of different vantage points, but a constant emphasis throughout will be the complexity of language in them. Readings will include tragedies, problem plays, and romances: definitely Othello , King Lear , Macbeth , Measure for Measure , The Tempest , The Winter's Tale . I'm also considering inclusion of one of the following: Hamlet or Antony and Cleopatra for its relation to the other great tragedies; and Troilus and Cressida or Henry VIII , both problematical history plays. The format will be informal lecture and discussion, with an emphasis on the latter. The basic requirements will be two essays, a midterm, and a final. Since texts will be needed in every class, I'm planning to order individual copies of the plays: Arden, 3rd edition, where available; otherwise the less expensive, highly portable Pelican edition.