THEA 375: Theatre History I (WI)
Prerequisites: THEA 201 and junior standing
Credit Hours: (3) Three hours lecture and discussion
Investigates theatre from its ritualistic beginnings to the Renaissance, examining
aspects of theatrical performance, design, architecture, audiences, literature, and
theory/criticism. Theatre is contextualized in the cultures, styles, and politics
of past societies, with emphasis on the influence of ancient theatre in today鈥檚 world.
Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course.
Detailed Description of Course
1. Origins of theatre
2. Ancient Greek and Roman Theatre
3. Medieval European Theatre
4. Ancient theatre across the globe, i.e. Japan, China, Iran, and India
5. Italian Renaissance Theatre
6. English Renaissance Theatre
7. Spanish Golden Age Theatre
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Course consists of traditional lecture through oral and visual presentations, visual
analysis of ancient structures, artifacts, fashion and artworks, class discussions,
group discussions, readings in and out of class, and completion of a research project.
Approaches will also include problem-based and experiential learning.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
1. To trace and recount important events and developments in the history of world
theatre;
2. To make sense of lives, styles, appearances, and cultures that differed from
our own;
3. To study, envision, and analyze historically significant theatrical performances;
4. To discover the relevance and value of theatre鈥檚 past to our life today;
5. To achieve the completion of a major research project;
6. To gain insight into how theatre and society have influenced one another.
Assessment Measures
Graded work will take the forms of written quizzes, tests, and papers.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
Date Action Approved by
September 2005 Review
2/2009 Revision Carl Lefko
3/2010 Revision Carl Lefko
July 2010
March 01, 2021