ENL 4333-0001 Spring 2025 - Bourus

This course will examine Shakespeare’s relationship to the transformative media of early modern England down to today on stage, in print, and in digital formats. What makes Shakespeare so appealing through the centuries and in different media formats? How has it continued to appeal to evolving media structures? We will look Shakespeare’s’ relationship to printers, publishers, actors, playing companies, theatrical infrastructure, and the bodies of performers. Who “is” Shakespeare? What meanings did his plays have in his own time, and what relevance do they continue to hold for us today? Active class participation is required. No background in Renaissance literature necessary, though prior experience with Shakespeare is a plus. ENL5227 fulfills the general lit requirement for one-course pre-1800. It also satisfies the requirement for coursework in the following areas of concentration: Medieval and Early Modern British Literacy and Cultural Studies, American Literary and Cultural Studies (through 1600); History of Text Technologies; or a Literary Genre (Drama).