Shakespeare and Antiquity

Timetable

It is not established yet 

Module aim (aims)

The course aims: - to gain a good knowledge of the influence of ancient literature on Shakespeare, - to understand the role of various ancient topoi and motifs in the Renaissance, - to know the connection between ancient writings (Livy, Plutarch, Seneca, Virgil, and Ovid) and Shakespeare, - the skill of a critical reading Shakespearean tragedies at the background of the ancient tradition.

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

Quite good English is required.

Syllabus

Course learning content: - general remarks on the English Renaissance, - Shakespeare and his theatre, - Hamlet as influenced by Aeschylus and Seneca, - Shakespeare's cruelty on the background of ancient tradition, - the role of the world in "Othello" and in Senecan "Phaedra", - "Midsummer Dream" as a play of myths, - English Julius Caesar versus ancient tradition, - Livy and Shakespeare in the legend of Lucretia, - the future in the view of Shakespeare as compared with Stoic opinions, - Shakespeare meets Ovid in "Titus Andronicus", - Shakespearean revenge and Senecan example, - "Macbeth" by Nesbo as an example of Shakespearean after-life.

Reading list

Reading list will be delivered by the teacher during the first meeting.