ENGL2021
10 units
2000 level
Course handbook
Description
This course offers an in-depth exploration of English Renaissance theatre and its representations of desire and death on stage. Through studying five plays central to the period, students will learn about genres such as revenge tragedy and tragicomedy, understandings of sexuality and gender, and death and mourning. There will also be a focus on London's theatres and publishing industry. Students will be introduced to major theoretical and methodological approaches to the field and will be encouraged to undertake advanced research in the topic area.
Availability
Not currently offered.
This Course was last offered in Semester 1 - 2024.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Interpret Renaissance literary works at advanced undergraduate level;
2. Analyse critical and theoretical debates surrounding Renaissance Literature;
3. Demonstrate an understanding of Renaissance modes of cultural production such as performance and print, different literary genres, and themes;
4. Develop written communication skills by reflecting on the cultural impact of Renaissance literature;
5. Develop understanding of Renaissance concepts of genre and gender.
Content
The course will focus on five plays central to the early modern theatres:
Thomas Kyd, The Spanish Tragedy
Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher, The Maid's Tragedy
Elizabeth Cary, The Tragedy of Mariam
John Webster, The Duchess of Malfi
John Ford, 'Tis Pity She's a Whore
This course also provides the opportunity for students to undertake advanced study and research on a topic of their choice inspired by the plays on the course. Focusing on a particular form, theme or approach, the course will allow students to develop specialised skills in literary analysis, contextual research, and informed scholarly critique. Students will receive training in the methodologies most pertinent to the topic area, which might include basic bibliography, theatre history, the history of the book, rhetorical tropes and figures, archival research, and the use of scholarly databases. The course offers a unique opportunity for students to engage wih cutting edge developments in Renaissance Literature and undertake a research project preparing them for Honours in English.
Requisite
Students cannot enrol in this course if they have previously successfully completed ENGL3021.
Assumed knowledge
20 units of English
Assessment items
Written Assignment: Short Essay
Essay: Essay
Journal: Reflective Task
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.