Course

William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community

University of Colorado Boulder

Embark on a captivating journey through William Shakespeare’s timeless comedy, Twelfth Night, with the University of Colorado Boulder. Delve into the richness of language, complexity of characters, and intricacy of narratives, gaining insights into the play's primary interpretive questions and its presentation of the human condition.

Through a series of engaging lectures, interviews with theater professionals, and interactive learning experiences, you'll unravel the relationship between comedy and tragedy, the conflict inherent in desire, and the ways in which Shakespeare’s works engaged his community and continue to resonate with modern audiences.

  • Explore the play’s world and performance history
  • Analyze themes of desire, identity, and chaos
  • Examine class, comedy, and conflict in Twelfth Night
  • Discuss the limits of comedy and Shakespeare’s impact in the community

Whether you're a Shakespeare enthusiast, a theater practitioner, a student, or a curious reader, this course offers a thought-provoking and enriching exploration of one of Shakespeare's most beloved works.

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William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night: Comedy, Conflict, and Community
Course Modules

Immerse yourself in a comprehensive exploration of Twelfth Night through a series of modules. From understanding the world of the play to analyzing its themes of desire, identity, and chaos, each module offers unique insights into Shakespeare’s timeless comedy.

Twelfth Night and the World of the Play

Embark on a journey to understand the world of Twelfth Night, exploring its performance history, characters, and the richness of Shakespeare’s language. Engage with the play through interactive learning experiences and gain an appreciation of its enduring relevance.

Desire, Identity, and Chaos in Twelfth Night

Dive into the themes of desire, identity, and chaos in Twelfth Night. Unravel the complexities of characters, their disguises, and the play of desire, gaining insights into the interpretive questions facing readers, actors, and scholars.

Class, Comedy, and Conflict in Twelfth Night

Explore the interplay of class, comedy, and conflict in Twelfth Night. Delve into the conflicts arising from desire, the aspirations of minor characters, and the punishment of Malvolio, enhancing your understanding of Shakespeare’s comedic world.

Twelfth Night and the Limits of Comedy

Delve into the limits of comedy in Twelfth Night, discussing its tragic potentials, the resolution, and the play’s conclusion. Engage in a creative application project and gain a deeper appreciation of the play’s nuanced comedic elements.

Applied Shakespeare in the Community: A Case Study

Discover the impact of applied Shakespeare in the community through a case study, exploring its role in anti-bullying campaigns and localizing Shakespeare’s works in your community. Gain insights into the scholarship and practice of applied Shakespeare.

OPTIONAL BONUS MODULE: Optional Full-Length Actor Interviews

Enjoy optional full-length actor interviews, gaining valuable perspectives from the Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s 2019 production of Twelfth Night. Delve into the insights and experiences of the actors and the director, offering a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the play.

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