Shakespeare Play Reading & Discussion Group | Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | University of Miami

Shakespeare Play Reading & Discussion Group

OSH 338 / Non Credit
Course taught in: English
Locations: TBA
Instructor: George Wendell

Course Description

We will read about 2 plays per session (3 weeks each including watching a DVD of a great stage performance, if possible from the Globe Theatre in London). Parts are assigned and shared as equally as possible. Those wishing smaller parts get them, but all are invited to make the plays come alive. Really a fun challenge, but with footnotes and a little practice the old English becomes second nature! Even the tragedies are filled with humor. We may, at student requests, read Henry IV, parts 1 and 2, Romeo and Juliet, The Merchant of Venice,or The Taming of the Shrew. Many unforgettable characters, thieves, lovers, fools and clowns, all among his best plays!

Recommended text for all plays is from ‘The Signet Shakespeare Classic series’ edited until this year by Sylvan Barnet. These text offer glosses on old and difficult words and phrases, and footnotes on cultural and thematic aspects; many have a selection of critical essays by prominent scholars. These are readily available at your favorite online bookseller. 

Mr. George Wendell graduated from UMass/Amherst with a BA in Classical studies and English, and earned an MA from the University of Toronto in Classical Studies. He brings his appreciation and knowledge of literature to OLLI and enjoys sharing his interest with classmates. Other interests include literary theory and criticism, linguistics, and playing the piano (mainly jazz).

Enroll Now

Top