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Understanding Shakespeare and the western Canon
This class will focus on development of public speaking and debating skills, using the works of Shakespeare as the primary body of study, along with similar texts throughout the western canon. Students will engage in theoretical and practical application of these works, both in vocal performance and persuasive and analytical speech construction. The classes will involve mock debates on various issues and encourage students to find their confidence in this form of rhetoric.
Course Outlines and Schedules
This course focuses on introducing students to the works of Shakespeare in their proper context and detail. Upon completing this course, students will understand the history of Shakespeare, his life and times, his plays, and their importance to the Western literary canon. Students will explore literary techniques within their original context of performance, learning to not only identify them within a text, but also why they are there, how to use them in a performance. Each student will apply their learning to a soliloquy, and work towards delivering a performance at the end of the ten sessions. This course will give students the tools they need to better understand Shakespeare when they encounter it in their formal education. Students will also gain confidence in public speaking, performance, and experience in theatrical, live performance.
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This course provides a chance to understand Shakespeare as his works were originally performed, by engaging with his works as both drama and literature.
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A wide range of plays and sonnets are covered, with the aim of preparing students for later study.
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The course also covers Shakespeare in context to ground student understanding.
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The course is structured by age and students focus on works of Shakespeare best suited to their level.
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A maximum of six students is mandated for each class, in order to maintain individual focus.
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The course is delivered over ten sessions, either once a week throughout the school term or intensively over the holidays.
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Schedule: Run during the school term and the holidays, based on enrolment.​