Shakespeare and History (Pre-1800)

In this course, students will explore a selection of Shakespeare's history plays (plus one tragedy and one comedy) alongside the chief issues of Tudor and Stuart history. The professors will employ a fully cross-disciplinary approach to literature and history laying equal stress on Shakespeare's plays and the cultural, political, and religious questions of the 16th and early 17th centuries. Topics will include the Reformation, the cult of Elizabeth, witchcraft, domestic life, urban London, and the English empire. 3 hrs. lect./disc.