This course builds on and deepens the theoretical and methodological knowledge acquired in the foundational modules ‘Introduction to Literary and Cultural Studies’ I and II. Focusing on The Tempest and Othello as two of Shakespeare’s plays that lend themselves particularly well to postcolonial criticism and readings through the lens of (premodern) critical race theory, we will discuss these approaches and examine how other theoretical lenses (such as gender studies, disability studies, ecocriticism) complement or complicate them. We will also discuss questions of Shakespeare’s contemporary relevance as well as if and how it makes sense to read his plays through modern theoretical lenses.

• William Shakespeare. Othello, edited by E. A. J. Honigmann. Revised edition with a new introduction by Ayanna Thompson. The Arden Shakespeare. Third Series. Bloomsbury, 2016.
• William Shakespeare. The Tempest, edited by Virginia Mason Vaughan and Alden T. Vaughan. Revised edition. The Arden Shakespeare. Third Series. Methuen, 2011.

The editions above are highly recommended, but you may, of course, use other editions. For the essay it is absolutely necessary to cite from a scholarly edition (also available at the department library), so do consider acquiring one, if you can. Further reading material will be made available online.

Please note that this is a Blockseminar and you will be expected to do significant preparatory work in advance. I will work hard to make it a useful (and fun) week but am reliant on your coming to class prepared, so please schedule time to prepare over the summer.

Kurs im HIS-LSF