Foundation and Course Purpose

This course provides the student with instruction in analysis and interpretation of drama from around the world and across multiple historical periods, and in methods of writing about various dramatic traditions. The course provides the student with the skills of effective communication in reading; writing, speaking, and staging; listening to; and viewing cross-cultural perspectives. Finally, the course introduces the student to the role of dramatic art as both cultural and individual expression.

English 376 “educates and inspires individuals to be critical, reflective thinkers.” The study of drama from various global and historical perspectives encourages students to become “ethical, compassionate citizens who are committed to making responsible contributions within a community, a nation and the world.” The study of world drama in English 376 encourages “an enduring passion for learning” by continuing and expanding the development of critical reading skills that will enhance students’ enjoyment of world literatures throughout their lives. Through interpretation and writing, students also develop a “commitment to self-reflection and personal development.” English 376 incorporates a wide variety of authors from “diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives,” and it celebrates “creative performance, expression, teaching, and discovery”: all of these are Core Values related to the University’s Mission Statement (Undergraduate Catalog).

English 376 incorporates perspectives from history, religion, psychology, sociology, and art—“matters of mutual academic and scholarly concerns to the various constituencies of Shenandoah” (College of Arts and Sciences Statement of Purpose, Undergraduate Catalog).

English 376 contributes to the department goal, “through study of great works of Western and world literatures,” to help English majors and non-major English students “develop a deep understanding of humankind’s artistic heritage, which reflects and shapes humankind’s historical, intellectual, psychological and spiritual dimensions.” An understanding and appreciation of world literatures will enhance future careers in “teaching (with appropriate certification), librarianship, academic administration, business, writing, editing, advertising, public relations and civil service — and graduate and professional schools.”

English 376 satisfies the General Education Domain 2: Arts and Society requirement, the English major requirement of an upper-level literature class, and the College of Arts and Sciences requirement of a literature class.