Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
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demonstrate a clear understanding of foundations of critical theory.
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apply critical theory to a range of theatre texts.
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apply critical theory to a range of theatre concepts.
Aims
To provide students with a foundation in critical theory which may serve as a common basis for the exploration of the theatre-related topics under discussion throughout the rest of the degree scheme.
Content
In Part 1 of this module students will consider the history and current status and function of interpretation in the context of Theatre. Various definitions of the concept of Post Modern will be exploited so as to provide a standpoint from which students may develop an understanding of the underlying concepts involved in critical interpretation, of the circumstances in which critical methodology has evolved and of the various discourses which converge in contemporary criticism.
Particular attention will be paid to the specific criteria of critical interpretation when applied to a theatrical text and to the historical evolution of the theatrical text in the context of Western European and North American theatre. In Part 2 of this module, three texts will be set for study in order to establish appropriate critical procedures and methodologies.
Reading Lists
Books
** Essential Reading
Counsell and Woolf (2001) Performance Analysis : A Coursebook
Routledge/Taylor and Francis
** Recommended Background
Calvino, Italo (1995) Six memos for the New Milennium
Vintage
Etchels, Tim (1999) Certain fragments
Routledge/ Taylor Francis
Kane, Sarah (1998) Crave
Methuen
Marcus, Greil (2002) Lipstick Traces: A Secret History of the Twentieth Century
Faber and Faber
Marranca, Bonnie (ed.) (1995) The theatre Images
PAJ
Muller, Heiner Hamletmachine
PAJ
Reinelt, Janelle and Roach, Joseph R (eds.) (1992) Critical Theory and Performance
Ann Arbour:Michigan university press
Schimmel, Paul (1998) Out of Actions: Between Performance and the Object 1949-1979
THames and Hudson
Notes
This module is at CQFW Level 7