Shakespeare's big speeches

Ever been scared of Shakespeare? Ever wondered what the fuss was about? Through discussion and simple exercises, we’ll explore some of his most famous lines and discover what gives them such enduring appeal.

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Key course information

Dates
16/09/11 - 25/11/11

Day(s)
Fri

Duration
11 weeks

Time
15:00 - 17:00

Fees
Full fee: £114
Senior fee: £64
Concession: £51

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
DA046

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
drama@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2542

Course outline

What is the course about?

To be able to read Shakespeare’s language confidently; to understand what gives Shakespeare’s great speeches their enduring appeal; to have a deeper understanding of how Shakespeare’s language works; and to understand different interpretations of particular speeches by directors and actors to help you be secure in what you do.

What topics will we cover?

We will discuss selected speeches from Shakespeare’s plays, examining both the context of the speech in the overall narrative and action of the scene; we will watch/listen to and discuss various recordings of these speeches; we will use simple rehearsal exercises to explore and try out these speeches for ourselves.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Understand the context of a given number of ‘great’ Shakespeare speeches.
Understand how the language works (e.g. rhetorical and poetic devices) to create character and action.
Deduce the sense of what is being said in a piece of Shakespeare text.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for all levels, including complete beginners and actors wanting to build their confidence in Shakespeare. Skills required are the ability to read English and willingness to participate in discussion and group activities.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The class will be taught through full class discussions and some practical work in pairs, small groups and individually. There will not be any homework.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

The tutor will provide photocopies of the speeches we study. It is recommended that you bring a notebook and pen/pencil for note-taking.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2542

drama@citylit.ac.uk

Drop-in advice During term-time: Monday & Wednesday 12.30 - 13.30 and 17.30 - 18.30 Thursday 17.30 - 18.30 Non term-time Tuesday 12.30 - 13.30 Wednesday 17.30 - 18.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.