British Theatre

Aimed at students from all Humanities disciplines, the course aims to provide a good knowledge and appreciation of theatre, dramatic literature and performance in their historical and cultural contexts, with an interdisciplinary perspective. The focus will be on significant examples of dramaturgy, aesthetics and theatrical practice in British theatre. However, the historical perspective will also form part of the training, particularly with a view to developing an awareness of the developments and controversial criticisms that have characterised the history of British theatre. Students will apply the skills and methods they have learnt through opportunities such as viewing some of the plays, producing short plays or performances, group work.

The expected learning outcomes are: Knowledge and understanding of the history, sources, methods and tools of theatre studies and the practices of dramaturgy, performance and directing, with particular reference to the English tradition. Knowledge of some of the major theatre figures, dramaturgies and practices, their historical-political, cultural and aesthetic contexts, stage practice, interlingual and interlinguistic transfer. Understanding of the theoretical, methodological and historical-cultural problems involved in the study of English theatre, including its intermedial and intercultural dissemination. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: ability to analyse and interpret the dramatic text and staging; ability to discuss and argue in a seminar context on the topics covered in the course and to apply the method to further examples; ability to apply the skills acquired in the production of both creative and critical (written or oral) individual or group work of appropriate methodological rigour.