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Course overview
Shakespeare Biography is a comprehensive and in-depth course that delves into the fascinating life and works of one of the greatest playwrights in history, William Shakespeare. Through a series of lectures, readings, and discussions, students will have the opportunity to explore the life of Shakespeare from his early years in Stratford-upon-Avon to his rise to prominence in London's theater scene.
The course will cover key aspects of Shakespeare's life, including his education, family background, marriage, and relationships with fellow writers and actors. Students will also examine how the social and political context of Elizabethan England influenced Shakespeare's work, from his early comedies and histories to his later tragedies and romances.
Through close readings of Shakespeare's plays and sonnets, students will gain a deeper appreciation for his enduring impact on literature and culture. Additionally, the course will explore the ongoing debates and controversies surrounding Shakespeare's authorship, literary influences, and legacy.
Whether you are a lifelong fan of Shakespeare or new to his works, this course offers a unique opportunity to engage with the life and times of one of the most celebrated figures in literary history. Join us as we unravel the mysteries and complexities of Shakespeare's biography and discover the man behind the legendary words that continue to captivate audiences around the world.
What will i learn?
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of William Shakespeare's life, including his upbringing, education, family background, and personal relationships.
- Analyze and discuss the historical context in which Shakespeare lived and worked, including the political and social events that influenced his writings.
- Explore the significance of Shakespeare's works in the context of English literature and drama, including his contribution to the development of the English language.
- Examine the various literary genres and themes present in Shakespeare's plays and sonnets, and their continued relevance in modern society.
- Develop critical thinking skills through the analysis and interpretation of Shakespeare's language, imagery, and symbolism.
- Evaluate the impact of Shakespeare's works on Western culture and their enduring popularity in literature, theater, and film.
- Engage in discussions and debates about the controversies and mysteries surrounding Shakespeare's life and authorship of his works.
- Demonstrate effective research skills in exploring primary and secondary sources related to Shakespeare's biography and literary works.
- Create original projects and presentations that showcase a deep understanding of Shakespeare's life, works, and legacy in the English-speaking world.
Requirements
- Attendance and Participation: Students are expected to attend all lectures and actively participate in class discussions and activities.
- Readings: Students will be required to read a selection of Shakespeare's plays, sonnets, and other works. Additional reading materials may be assigned by the instructor.
- Assignments: Students will complete a variety of assignments, including essays, research papers, and presentations, that demonstrate their understanding of Shakespeare's life and works.
- Quizzes and Exams: There will be quizzes and exams throughout the course to assess students' comprehension of the material covered.
- Final Exam: The course will conclude with a comprehensive final exam that covers the key concepts and themes discussed throughout the semester.
- Attendance at Live Performances: Students may be required to attend live performances of Shakespeare's plays to gain a better understanding of his works in a theatrical context.
- Collaboration: Students may be required to work in groups on certain assignments to encourage collaboration and discussion.
- Prerequisites: None
- Course Duration: One week
Curriculum for this course
15 Lessons
00:00:00 Hours
Early Life and Background
3 Lessons
00:00:00 Hours
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Introduction to Shakespeare's birth and upbringing in Stratford-upon-Avon
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Family background and influences on his early life
.
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Education and upbringing in a provincial town
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Career in London
3 Lessons
00:00:00 Hours
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Shakespeare's move to London and initial struggles
.
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Exploration of the theater scene in Elizabethan England
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Rising prominence as a playwright and actor in London
.
The Globe Theatre
3 Lessons
00:00:00 Hours
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Establishment and significance of the Globe Theatre
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Shakespeare's involvement in the theater and his collaborations
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Impact of the Globe on Shakespeare's works
.
Major Works
3 Lessons
00:00:00 Hours
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Analysis of some of Shakespeare's most famous plays and sonnets
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Examination of the enduring popularity of his works
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Discussion of themes, influences, and cultural impact
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Personal Life and Relationships
3 Lessons
00:00:00 Hours
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Insights into Shakespeare's family life and upbringing
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Examination of his marriage to Anne Hathaway and children
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Exploration of Shakespeare's friendships and relationships in London
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Frequently asked question
1. What will I learn in a course on Shakespeare's biography?
In a course on Shakespeare's biography, you will learn about the life of William Shakespeare, his family background, early years, education, career, relationships, and the impact of his life experiences on his works.
2. Who was William Shakespeare and why is he such an important figure in literature?
William Shakespeare was a renowned English playwright, poet, and actor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and world literature. He is important in literature due to his exceptional storytelling, profound understanding of human nature, and enduring influence on the arts.
3. How does Shakespeare's biography influence his works?
Shakespeare's biography, including his personal experiences, relationships, and historical context, greatly influenced his works. Knowledge of his life can provide insights into the themes, characters, and settings he used in his plays and poems.
4. Can I expect to learn about Shakespeare's early life and family in this course?
Yes, you can expect to learn about Shakespeare's early life, family background, and upbringing in a course on his biography. These details are crucial in understanding the circumstances that shaped his later works.
5. What are some interesting facts about Shakespeare's life that will be covered in the course?
Interesting facts about Shakespeare's life that may be covered in the course include his marriage, relationship with his children, his acting career, the Globe Theatre, and the mystery surrounding some aspects of his life.
6. Are there any controversial aspects of Shakespeare's biography that we will explore?
There are some controversial aspects of Shakespeare's biography, such as authorship debates, his religious beliefs, and possible romantic entanglements, that may be explored in the course.
7. How will studying Shakespeare's biography enhance my understanding of his plays and poems?
Studying Shakespeare's biography can enhance your understanding of his works by providing insights into his motivations, inspirations, and the societal influences that shaped his writing.
8. Will the course cover Shakespeare's relationships with other writers and literary figures of his time?
The course may cover Shakespeare's relationships with other writers and literary figures of his time, such as Christopher Marlowe, Ben Jonson, and the patronage system that supported playwrights in Elizabethan England.
9. Do I need to have prior knowledge of Shakespeare's works to take this course on his biography?
Prior knowledge of Shakespeare's works is not required to take a course on his biography. The focus will be on understanding the man behind the iconic literary works.
10. Will the course also touch on the historical and cultural context in which Shakespeare lived and worked?
The course is likely to touch on the historical and cultural context in which Shakespeare lived and worked, including the political climate, social norms, religious beliefs, and artistic trends of the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras.
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