Shakespeare's Richard II

Class Description

This class begins a four term journey through Shakespeare’s second tetralogy which includes Richard II, Henry IV Part 1, Henry IV Part 2 (the two Falstaff plays), and finally Henry V. In this sequence Shakespeare examines several topics that not only intrigued, if not plagued, him but also intrigue and plague us today: what constitutes historical narrative; who gets to write history; what qualities are necessary in a just ruler; the nature of political and military power and how to use both; and how the pursuit of political power can affect its participants. The four term course will include substantial readings in Renaissance political theory and scholarly analysis of the four plays. If possible, each class will feature a film by The English Shakespeare Company directed by Michael Pennington. Text: Any scholarly edition of the play: Oxford, Cambridge, Arden, Signet, Pelican, Folger Library are all fine. For the first class, please read all of act one. In Person: Room B2 Mondays: 10:00am - 11:30am *No Class 9/30 Class Limit: 15

Cancellation Policy

Class fees will be refunded 100% if an instructor cancels class or a student drops before the end of the first week of classes. Registration fees are non-refundable

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