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David Glimp
and
Kevin Rich
This course introduces and explores William Shakespeare’s classic comedy, Twelfth Night. Interviews with actors who appeared in the Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s 2019 production of Twelfth Night, as well as lectures by scholars and theater professionals who work and teach at the University of Colorado Boulder, offer students insight into Shakespeare’s artistic vision and its applications. Exploring Shakespeare’s language, his characters, his humor and his world view, the lectures, interviews, and interactive learning experiences that make up this class will help students comprehend the power of Shakespearean comedy and the abiding appeal of Twelfth Night for its original audience and our contemporary moment. You'll explore the relationship between comedy and tragedy, the conflict inherent in desire, and the ways Shakespeare's words and works engaged his community, and yours.
Read more
This course introduces and explores William Shakespeare’s classic comedy, Twelfth Night. Interviews with actors who appeared in the Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s 2019 production of Twelfth Night, as well as lectures by scholars and theater professionals who work and teach at the University of Colorado Boulder, offer students insight into Shakespeare’s artistic vision and its applications. Exploring Shakespeare’s language, his characters, his humor and his world view, the lectures, interviews, and interactive learning experiences that make up this class will help students comprehend the power of Shakespearean comedy and the abiding appeal of Twelfth Night for its original audience and our contemporary moment. You'll explore the relationship between comedy and tragedy, the conflict inherent in desire, and the ways Shakespeare's words and works engaged his community, and yours.
Read more
This course introduces and explores William Shakespeare’s classic comedy, Twelfth Night. Interviews with actors who appeared in the Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s 2019 production of Twelfth Night, as well as lectures by scholars and theater professionals who work and teach at the University of Colorado Boulder, offer students insight into Shakespeare’s artistic vision and its applications. Exploring Shakespeare’s language, his characters, his humor and his world view, the lectures, interviews, and interactive learning experiences that make up this class will help students comprehend the power of Shakespearean comedy and the abiding appeal of Twelfth Night for its original audience and our contemporary moment. You'll explore the relationship between comedy and tragedy, the conflict inherent in desire, and the ways Shakespeare's words and works engaged his community, and yours.
This course strives to be of interest to multiple audiences, but we think it may particularly appeal to...
* Shakespeare enthusiasts and the Shakespeare curious in all walks of life
* Actors, theater practitioners, and teachers of Shakespeare everywhere
* Secondary school and college students interested in expanding their studies of Shakespeare
* Interested readers with little or no familiarity with Shakespeare
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/ovua4b/william
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What's inside
Syllabus
Twelfth Night and the World of the Play
This module provides an overview of Twelfth Night and introduces the play by exploring key aspects of the world it imagines. The interviews, lectures, and faculty roundtable explore the carnivalesque quality of the play, its humor, its language, and significant historical contexts. Dialogues with scholars and theater practitioners provide multiple perspectives on the nature of this narrative universe.
Read more
Syllabus
Twelfth Night and the World of the Play
This module provides an overview of Twelfth Night and introduces the play by exploring key aspects of the world it imagines. The interviews, lectures, and faculty roundtable explore the carnivalesque quality of the play, its humor, its language, and significant historical contexts. Dialogues with scholars and theater practitioners provide multiple perspectives on the nature of this narrative universe.
Read more
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In-depth exploration of Shakespeare's classic comedy, Twelfth Night
Includes interviews with actors who performed in a professional production of Twelfth Night
Taught by university scholars and theater professionals
Interactive learning experiences, such as lectures, discussions, and videos
Suitable for a wide range of audiences, including Shakespeare enthusiasts, actors, teachers, and students
Covers various aspects of Twelfth Night, including its language, characters, humor, and worldview
Provides a case study of how Twelfth Night has been re-interpreted in contemporary contexts
Includes optional full-length actor interviews for deeper engagement
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Reviews summary
Accessible and insightful shakespeare study
According to learners, this course offers an engaging and accessible exploration of William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. Students frequently praise the knowledgeable and passionate instructors, especially Professor Travis, who make complex themes and language approachable. A standout feature is the inclusion of unique interviews with Colorado Shakespeare Festival actors, which provides invaluable practical and performance perspectives, bridging academic study with theatrical insights. While many appreciate the depth of analysis on the play's humor, conflict, and community themes, some experienced students found the pace occasionally slow or the content too basic for advanced learners. Overall, it's a highly recommended course for both beginners and enthusiasts seeking a deeper appreciation of the play.
Makes complex Shakespearean themes approachable.
"The way they broke down the language and themes made it so accessible. Highly recommend for any Shakespeare lover or even a beginner."
"Fantastic course for anyone wanting to dive into Shakespeare's Twelfth Night."
"This course is good for a general overview and helped me appreciate the layers of humor and conflict."
Offers deep insights into comedy, conflict, and desire.
"The depth of analysis on the play's themes, especially the balance of comedy and tragedy, was insightful."
"I particularly enjoyed the segments on the historical context and how the play engaged its community."
"The exploration of themes like desire and identity was incredibly thought-provoking."
Provides invaluable practical perspectives from actors.
"The interviews with the Colorado Shakespeare Festival actors were a unique and valuable addition, offering practical perspectives."
"The bonus module with full actor interviews was fantastic for someone like me interested in theatrical interpretation."
"As a theater student, this course was invaluable. The perspective from the actors was a game-changer..."
"The blend of academic lectures and real-world acting insights is unparalleled."
Features passionate and knowledgeable professors.
"Absolutely loved this course! The lectures by Professor Travis and insights from the actors were truly exceptional."
"The instructors were passionate and knowledgeable."
"The professors are engaging... Professor Travis makes Shakespeare so accessible and exciting."
"Absolutely brilliant! Professor Travis makes Shakespeare so accessible and exciting."
May feel slow or basic for advanced learners.
"Found some parts of the course a bit slow... I was hoping for more interactive elements or perhaps more practical application exercises."
"Honestly, I found the pace too slow and the content somewhat basic for someone with a background in literary studies. It felt like it was primarily for beginners."
"Decent introductory course... I felt the discussions sometimes lingered too long on obvious points. I expected more rigorous academic challenges."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community with these
activities:
Read a biography of William Shakespeare
Show steps
Gain insights into the life and times of the playwright, enriching your understanding of the historical and cultural context of Twelfth Night.
View
The English Actor: From Medieval to Modern
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Find a well-regarded biography of William Shakespeare.
-
Read the biography thoroughly, paying attention to Shakespeare's childhood, education, career, and personal life.
-
Consider how the historical and cultural context of Shakespeare's time influenced his writing.
Read and analyze Twelfth Night
Show steps
Engage with the play's text to build a solid foundation for course discussions and assignments.
Show steps
-
Read the play attentively, highlighting key passages and making notes.
-
Analyze the characters, plot, themes, and language of the play.
-
Consider the historical and cultural context of the play.
-
Prepare questions or insights to contribute to class discussions.
Explore online resources on Shakespearean comedy
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of the genre and its conventions, which will aid in appreciating Twelfth Night's significance.
Show steps
-
Visit reputable websites or online databases specializing in Shakespearean studies.
-
Search for articles, essays, or videos discussing Shakespearean comedy.
-
Read or view the selected resources, taking notes on key concepts and insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze Shakespearean language and imagery
Show steps
Develop proficiency in deciphering and interpreting Shakespeare's unique use of language, enhancing comprehension of the play's nuances.
Show steps
-
Select a passage from Twelfth Night and examine its diction, syntax, and imagery.
-
Identify and analyze literary devices such as metaphors, similes, and allusions.
-
Interpret the passage's meaning and significance within the context of the play.
Join a study group or discussion forum
Show steps
Engage with fellow students to exchange insights, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of the play's themes and characters.
Show steps
-
Reach out to classmates or join an existing study group or discussion forum focused on Twelfth Night.
-
Participate in discussions, share your perspectives, and ask for clarification.
-
Collaborate with others to develop a deeper understanding of the play's complexities.
Attend a live performance of Twelfth Night
Show steps
Witness the play brought to life on stage, enriching your understanding of character dynamics and the impact of live performance.
Show steps
-
Find a local theater or acting troupe that is staging Twelfth Night.
-
Purchase tickets and attend the performance.
-
Observe the actors' interpretations of the characters and the overall presentation of the play.
-
Reflect on your experience and how it enhances your appreciation of Twelfth Night.
Write a character analysis essay
Show steps
Demonstrate a deep understanding of a character's motivations, conflicts, and development, showcasing analytical and critical writing skills.
Browse courses on
Character Analysis
Show steps
-
Choose a character from Twelfth Night and research their role in the play.
-
Analyze the character's actions, dialogue, and relationships with others.
-
Develop a thesis statement that presents your interpretation of the character.
-
Write an essay that supports your thesis with evidence from the play.
-
Proofread and revise your essay, ensuring clarity and coherence.
Tutor or assist other students in understanding Twelfth Night
Show steps
Solidify your grasp of the play while providing valuable support to fellow students, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities to mentor or tutor other students who are studying Twelfth Night.
-
Prepare materials and resources to facilitate understanding of the play's key elements.
-
Meet with students regularly, providing guidance, answering questions, and encouraging discussion.
-
Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement in your mentoring skills.
Read a biography of William Shakespeare
Show steps
Gain insights into the life and times of the playwright, enriching your understanding of the historical and cultural context of Twelfth Night.
View
The English Actor: From Medieval to Modern
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a well-regarded biography of William Shakespeare.
- Read the biography thoroughly, paying attention to Shakespeare's childhood, education, career, and personal life.
- Consider how the historical and cultural context of Shakespeare's time influenced his writing.
Read and analyze Twelfth Night
Show steps
Engage with the play's text to build a solid foundation for course discussions and assignments.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the play attentively, highlighting key passages and making notes.
- Analyze the characters, plot, themes, and language of the play.
- Consider the historical and cultural context of the play.
- Prepare questions or insights to contribute to class discussions.
Explore online resources on Shakespearean comedy
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of the genre and its conventions, which will aid in appreciating Twelfth Night's significance.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit reputable websites or online databases specializing in Shakespearean studies.
- Search for articles, essays, or videos discussing Shakespearean comedy.
- Read or view the selected resources, taking notes on key concepts and insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze Shakespearean language and imagery
Show steps
Develop proficiency in deciphering and interpreting Shakespeare's unique use of language, enhancing comprehension of the play's nuances.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a passage from Twelfth Night and examine its diction, syntax, and imagery.
- Identify and analyze literary devices such as metaphors, similes, and allusions.
- Interpret the passage's meaning and significance within the context of the play.
Join a study group or discussion forum
Show steps
Engage with fellow students to exchange insights, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of the play's themes and characters.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to classmates or join an existing study group or discussion forum focused on Twelfth Night.
- Participate in discussions, share your perspectives, and ask for clarification.
- Collaborate with others to develop a deeper understanding of the play's complexities.
Attend a live performance of Twelfth Night
Show steps
Witness the play brought to life on stage, enriching your understanding of character dynamics and the impact of live performance.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a local theater or acting troupe that is staging Twelfth Night.
- Purchase tickets and attend the performance.
- Observe the actors' interpretations of the characters and the overall presentation of the play.
- Reflect on your experience and how it enhances your appreciation of Twelfth Night.
Write a character analysis essay
Show steps
Demonstrate a deep understanding of a character's motivations, conflicts, and development, showcasing analytical and critical writing skills.
Browse courses on
Character Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a character from Twelfth Night and research their role in the play.
- Analyze the character's actions, dialogue, and relationships with others.
- Develop a thesis statement that presents your interpretation of the character.
- Write an essay that supports your thesis with evidence from the play.
- Proofread and revise your essay, ensuring clarity and coherence.
Tutor or assist other students in understanding Twelfth Night
Show steps
Solidify your grasp of the play while providing valuable support to fellow students, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities to mentor or tutor other students who are studying Twelfth Night.
- Prepare materials and resources to facilitate understanding of the play's key elements.
- Meet with students regularly, providing guidance, answering questions, and encouraging discussion.
- Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement in your mentoring skills.
Career center
Learners who complete William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
English Professor
English Professor
English Professors teach and research English literature, language, and writing. A course like this may be of use for an English Professor who teaches courses on drama, literature, or Shakespeare specifically. The course takes a deep dive into one of Shakespeare's most famous works, Twelfth Night. Coursework includes interviews with actors, lectures by scholars, and interactive learning experiences that explore the play's language, humor, character development, and world view.
English Teacher
English Teacher
English Teachers are educators with an interest in literature, language, and writing. They teach middle school, high school, and college courses in language and literature. In such a role, a background in Shakespearean dramatic comedy like Twelfth Night would be very useful. The course offers a comprehensive view of themes in the play, including desire, conflict, and chaos. In addition, the course includes breakdowns of the work's language, its humor, and its historical context. Altogether, the course could help an English Teacher add new and interesting elements to their lesson plans.
Actor
Actor
Actors portray characters in film, television, theater, and other performing arts media. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community would likely be of interest to an Actor, as it consists of interviews with actors and an in-depth examination of Shakespeare's work. By taking part in this course, an Actor can learn more about Shakespeare's language, motivations, and writing style.
Playwright
Playwright
Playwrights write plays and other dramatic works for theater, film, and television. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community may be of interest to a Playwright, as it offers opportunities to learn from and analyze one of the most famous playwrights in history. The course features interviews with actors, lectures by scholars, and interactive learning experiences that explore Shakespeare's writing style and the themes he explored in his work.
Poet
Poet
Poets write poems and other forms of verse. They may also edit, critique, and translate poems, as well as give lectures or readings of their work. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community is a deep dive into the work of one of the most famous poets in history. Coursework for this course includes a study of Shakespeare's language, his humor, and his world view. As a Poet, you are likely already familiar with Shakespeare's work, and this course may deepen your existing knowledge enough to influence your own poetic style.
College Professor
College Professor
College Professors teach and educate college students. A Professor typically holds an advanced degree in their respective field, such as a master's or PhD. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community is designed for scholars and theater professionals, but could also be of great use to College Professors who teach English courses. The course dives deep into the play's language, characters, humor, and world view. By taking the course, College Professors could expand their knowledge of Shakespeare's writing and enhance their lectures.
Artistic Director
Artistic Director
An Artistic Director oversees the overall artistic vision of a performing arts organization, such as a theater company or dance company. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community may be of interest to an Artistic Director, as it explores the works of one of the most famous playwrights and poets in history. Coursework includes an in-depth examination of Shakespeare's language, humor, character development, and world view. This knowledge may inform an Artistic Director's choices on which works to produce and how to stage them.
Communications Specialist
Communications Specialist
A Communications Specialist is a professional who develops and executes communication strategies or campaigns to inform or persuade an audience on behalf of a client or an employer. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community could help a Communications Specialist better understand what makes effective writing. Moreover, the course explores how Shakespeare engaged his audience and community with his works. These topics are important because, as a Communications Specialist, you'll have to engage your audience to persuade them to a particular belief or action.
Screenwriter
Screenwriter
Screenwriters write scripts for films, television shows, and other video media. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community may be of use to a Screenwriter, as it examines the work of a great writer across disciplines. Coursework includes breakdowns of his language, character development, humor, and world view. Altogether, this course could enhance a writer's skills in storytelling and audience engagement.
Producer
Producer
Producers plan and coordinate different aspects of television and film productions, working with directors, writers, actors, crew, and others to ensure that a project is completed. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community could be very helpful to a Producer, as it analyzes the works of a masterful storyteller and audience engager. The course examines how Shakespeare engaged with themes of comedy, conflict, and community, which are all relevant to film and television production.
Speechwriter
Speechwriter
Speechwriters write speeches and other public address materials for politicians, business leaders, and other public figures. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community could help a Speechwriter hone their skills in storytelling and audience engagement. The course explores how Shakespeare engaged with his audience and community, using humor, conflict, and other techniques to make his points.
Editor
Editor
An Editor is responsible for overseeing the production of written content. This may include planning, fact-checking, copyediting, and proofreading. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community would likely be beneficial for an Editor, as it immerses the student in Shakespeare's language and writing style. Furthermore, the course explores how the author engaged with his audience and community. This type of study could inform an Editor's approach to their own written works.
Writer
Writer
Writers write creative or journalistic works, such as novels, short stories, poems, articles, and more. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community could help a Writer to enhance their storytelling and audience engagement skills. The course explores how Shakespeare engaged with his audience and community, using humor, conflict, and other techniques to make his points.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists write, edit, and publish news stories and other content for newspapers, magazines, websites, and other media outlets. A course like Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community may be of some use to a Journalist, as it will help them to understand how to tell a story and engage with an audience. The course examines how Shakespeare engaged with themes of comedy, conflict, and community, which are relevant to writing news articles and other journalistic content.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ovua4b/william
Reading list
We've selected 19 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community.
This edition of Twelfth Night provides a comprehensive overview of the play, including its historical context, critical reception, and performance history. It also includes detailed annotations and a glossary, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars alike.
A comprehensive introduction to Shakespeare's comedies, this book provides an overview of the genre, as well as detailed analysis of individual plays, including Twelfth Night.
Save
This is an annotated edition of Twelfth Night that provides a wealth of background information, including historical context, character analysis, and textual notes. While not required, reading this book will benefit those who want to dig deeper into Shakespeare's play.
This edition of Twelfth Night includes a variety of critical essays and source materials, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars alike.
Save
This edition of Twelfth Night includes a helpful introduction, notes, and glossary, making it a good choice for students and general readers alike.
A collection of essays on Shakespeare's comedies, this book provides insights into the genre, as well as detailed analysis of individual plays, including Twelfth Night.
Provides a sweeping overview of Shakespeare's work and its impact on Western culture. It challenging but rewarding read for anyone interested in understanding Shakespeare's genius.
Save
This comprehensive handbook provides essays on all aspects of Shakespeare's work, including his comedies, histories, and tragedies. It valuable reference tool for anyone interested in learning more about Shakespeare.
This edition of Twelfth Night includes a helpful introduction and notes, making it a good choice for students and general readers alike.
Explores the relationship between gender and comedy, with a particular focus on Shakespeare's plays.
Save
Explores the relationship between Shakespeare's plays and the culture in which they were written.
Provides an overview of Shakespeare's comedies, including Twelfth Night. It good starting point for those who are new to Shakespeare's work.
Save
Provides an introduction to Shakespeare's comedies, including Twelfth Night. It good starting point for those who are new to Shakespeare's work.
This anthology includes a wide range of English literature, including Shakespeare's plays. It valuable resource for anyone interested in reading Shakespeare's work in the context of other literary works.
Save
Explores the relationship between Shakespeare's plays and the social and political context in which they were written.
This edition of Twelfth Night includes a helpful introduction and notes, making it a good choice for students and general readers alike.
This edition of Twelfth Night provides a detailed introduction to the play, as well as extensive notes and commentary.
Save
This edition of Twelfth Night includes a helpful introduction, notes, and glossary, making it a good choice for students and general readers alike.
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the cultural context in which Shakespeare wrote, including the social, political, and religious landscape of Elizabethan England. It useful resource for understanding the world that Shakespeare inhabited.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ovua4b/william
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Effort
5 weeks of study, between 2 and 5 hours of learning experiences per week.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructors
David Glimp
Kevin Rich
Language
English
Transcripts
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