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May 03, 2026
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THE 4001 - DRAMATIC THEORY AND CRITICISM
credits: 3.0
A study of dramatic theory and criticism from ancient Greece to today’s modern theatre. The canon of dramatic literature from its beginnings to the newest of works is employed to consider the impact of the theories studied. As theatre and drama exist within a larger world, the intent of the course is to acquaint students with the variety and development of both theatre forms and dramatic literature in historical, cultural, and social contexts. Will seek to discover the uses of, and purposes for, theater and drama in a variety of cultures and subcultures, and how the use of theatre and drama affected the people within and outside each cultural group. Objectives: A) Relate individual plays to specific theories and criticism; B) Discuss dramatic theory as it relates to specific periods of history; C) Discuss dramatic theory as it relates to specific cultures; D) Discuss theatre as it relates to social contexts; E) Compare-contrast works of dramatic literature, theory, and criticism; F) Write clear and concise analyses of dramatic artists and their work; G) Present theory and criticism in oral formats. Method of Instruction: As this course is intended to, in some ways, serve as a capstone to all academic elements of study for theatre majors, it will be taught as a seminar. While exams will be provided, much of the work (and evaluation) of students will be the preparation of materials for presentation to both student and faculty colleagues (in both written and oral forms.) Discussions of period or country specific theories will be followed by the application of those theories to works of dramatic literature from the period. Continuous development of an understanding of the nature of criticism as either refuting or building upon earlier criticism is stressed. Method of Evaluation: Quizzes on readings (10%), Presentations (on assigned readings) written and oral (20%), Papers (application of theory to other works) 10% each (20%), Exams (2) 10% each (20%), Final Paper (compare-contrast theories in specific application) (30%). Meets *WRT AND *WEP Distribution Requirements.
Prerequisite(s): JUNIOR STANDING OR PERMISSION OF THE INSTRUCTOR.
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