Lecture:
10:10A-11:00A MW (67) 3 cr

Discussions:
10:10A-11:00A F (22)
11:15A-12:05P F (23)
1:25P-2:15P F (22)

Shakespeare's plays are memorable not only for their compelling
characters and rich language, but also because they grapple with
complex social problems that continue to concern us today, albeit
in different forms.  In this introduction to Shakespeare, we will
examine characterization, language, and dramatic conflict by
approaching the plays as products of -- and participants in --
the social struggles of Renaissance England.  How do the plays
give us insight into the social norms, ideals, contradictions,
and tensions of Shakespeare's culture?   In the first unit of the
course we will read some comedies in which traditional
definitions of gender, sexuality, and female power are under
strain.  In the second unit, we will read plays that feature
challenges to the dominant religious, social, and racial
ideologies in Renaissance England:  for example, Jewishness in
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, rebellion in HENRY VI, and blackness in
OTHELLO.  The third unit will focus on the problem of political
authority in plays like MACBETH and THE TEMPEST.  We will read
comedy, tragedy, history, and romance in individual editions of
the plays from the Bantam Shakespeare.  Requirements are two
papers; a midterm and a comprehensive final exam; in-class
writing; active participation in discussion groups.