THEA 423: Acting III: Shakespeare
Prerequisites: THEA 227 (Acting I), and THEA 328 (Acting II)
Credit Hours: (3)
This course is an exploration of Shakespeare鈥檚 text in performance. Emphasis is placed
on textual analysis, and the speaking and performing of Shakespeare鈥檚 works.
Detailed Description of Course Content
This course will examine the plays of Shakespeare, and the actor鈥檚 tools needed to
effectively perform them.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Shakespeare鈥檚 plays will be read, and the text dissected, though not for the sake
of exploring the works as a strictly literary form, but rather as a form to be spoken,
and vibrantly brought to life on stage. The course will emphasize the form and function
of the text, as well as the compelling acting choices that arise from deeper textual
understanding. The course will also contain study of the historical context of the
plays, and the examination of research sources. All students will perform scenes and
monologues.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
The student will develop deeper understanding and confident use of Shakespeare鈥檚
texts.
The student will gain a thorough knowledge of the form and function of Shakespeare鈥檚 texts, with specific emphasis on scansion, rhetorical devices, word meaning, as well as verse and dramatic structure.
The student will expand his/her use of the voice and body to bring Shakespeare鈥檚 language and meaning to theatrical life.
The student will examine the historical, political, and social context surrounding
the writing of Shakespeare鈥檚 plays.
Assessment Measures
Direct feedback from the faculty on performance work. Additional assessment will
take the form of written analysis of the text, quizzes on assigned material, as well
as weekly written journals.
Other Course Information
This course will follow a similar model to our other Acting courses, while building
on craft and skills. In addition to traditional course materials (such as script
copies of Shakespeare鈥檚 complete works), podcasts and performances of Shakespeare鈥檚
plays (live when available) will be utilized to deepen understanding. Please see the
attached Working Bibliography.
Review and Approval
March, 2019