Although the mature tragedies center of the dissolution and betrayal of the family bond, Shakespeare’s early works brim with violence against the Other: violence against people of different faiths, violence against women, violence against foreigners, violence against non-human nature. In this course we will focus on stylized depictions of violence in Shakespeare, and his drama’s exposure of the cultural logic that sanctions such acts. We will examine the affinity between laughter and violence, between rhetorical prowess and physical force, between spectacle and state power, and discuss how characters use wit and humor to defuse potentially explosive situations. We will also view clips of film adaptations such as Taymor’s Titus and Zefferelli’s Taming of the Shrew, and attend a production of The Merchant of Venice at The Seattle Shakespeare Company.

Course work will include 2 short response essays (2 pages each), an annotated bibliography, and a longer research paper (7-8 pages). Some prior experience with Shakespeare or pre-1800 literature is recommended; intellectual curiosity is the only prerequisite.

Title Publisher Editor ISBN-13
Merchant of Venice Norton Leah Marcus 978-0-393-92529-6
Taming of the Shrew Bedford Frances Dolan 978-0-312-10836-6
Titus Andronicus Oxford Eugene Waith 978-0-199-53610-8
As You Like It Arden Juliet Dusinberre 978—1-904-27122-2