This course is an introduction to William Shakespeare and his world. We shall examine his vast canon by first perusing the Sonnets, and then proceed to consider six plays from a generic perspective. Each genre will be discussed, followed by a close reading of the relevant text, encompassing: tragedy, revenge drama, comedy, tragicomedy, and problem plays. Each text will be contextually considered within the pertinent socio-cultural background, to illustrate the mutual influence of drama and ideology. Relevant critical articles will also be studied to evaluate the changing methodological approaches to the world of Shakespeare.

Texts
Sonnets
Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Much Ado About Nothing, Measure for Measure, The Tempest
Requirements
One in-class quiz, one take-home assignment, mid and final examinations