What is the course about?
The course is intended to give you an overview of 'A Winter's Tale' in terms of the origins of the play, when in
Shakespeare's career it was written, parallels with other plays by Shakespeare and the key ideas explored in the
play. We will read extracts from key scenes and view short film clips, in order to analyse the development of
characters and themes as the play progresses.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
-the play's background
-an overview of what happens and to whom
-analysis of key characters
-parallels with other plays by Shakespeare
-close reading and analysis of some key scenes and speeches.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- identify key elements of the background to the play
-identify the main characters and what happens to them during the play
-comment with understanding on what we learn about characters and ideas in selected scenes from the play
-comment with understanding on Shakepeare's use of language in selected scenes and speeches
-draw some parallels between this play and others by Shakespeare.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is introductory. You need an enthusiasm for reading and discussing texts in large and small groups an
interest in, and ability to listen to, the responses of other students to the work discussed.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
It will be helpful if you have read 'A Winter's Tale' before the class.
You will be provided with extracts for class discussion. The teaching and learning methods will include
a mixture of small and whole group discussion with some tutor introduction, and reading some scenes and
speeches from the play.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You might want to bring a copy of the whole play. Extracts discussed in class will also be provided.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Look for other drama and literature courses on our website at www.citylit.ac.uk/History, Culture and Writing/literature/drama.
