Theater of Dionysus - Athens

In this course students examine the dramas of the Greek playwrights who lived and wrote in fifth-century BC Athens. We will read a number of plays and discuss them in detail during class; attention will be directed to what the author is saying how he is saying it, and how his views correspond to the ideas of his time. Several films will be shown during the semester.

Readings are to be done on the assigned dates. Class attendance is recommended and classroom participation is encouraged; both will be rewarded.

Texts are to be brought to class. There will be two hours examinations, one "thought" paper, three take-home questions, one performance to see and one scene presentation. There may be other special events.

Grade Determination:

    1. One (1) thought paper (c. 8pp) @ 20%

    2. Two (2) hour exams [mid-term & final] @ 30 (2 x 15%)

    3. Three (3) take-home questions @ 15%

    4. One (1)-Scene presentation (10%)

5. Three (3) Special Events:  see Details on Week-by-Week page

Re: Scene presentation. Since drama means "things done" and theater means "things seen," you will be expected to prepare for class presentation at the end of the term a short scene from the plays we have read. You will work in groups of 2-3 to present these scenes; you may be as dramatic as your ability permits!

Please see individual listings on the Web Page:

Syllabus / Classroom Discussion Guides /Readings / Take Home Questions

Professor Karelisa Hartigan