221 Cumberland Ave North
Saskatoon SK S7N 1M3 Canada
Telephone: 306-966-5563
Please Note: This Class Syllabus is an important step in updating the format of our distance classes. If for any reason the Class Syllabus does not match the
print Course Guide or online class information, the Class Syllabus shall be taken as correct.
CLASS SYLLABUS
COURSE TITLE:
Shakespeare Comedy and History
TERM:
Winter 2017
COURSE CODE:
ENG 224
DELIVERY:
Online
COURSE CREDITS:
3
START DATE:
January 4, 2017
COURSE SECTION:
W02-W99
END DATE:
April 6, 2017
Course Description
This course will focus on the romantic comedies and English history plays that Shakespeare wrote
for Elizabethan audiences in the first half of his theatre career; it will also include the darker, more
tragicomic “problem comedies” that he wrote under James I.
Prerequisite(s): 6 credit units 100-level English; or 3 credit units English and INTS 101.
Note: Students with credit for ENG 221.6 or 321.6 may not take this course for credit.
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students should have
1. Developed core understanding of Shakespeare's romantic comedies and history plays, as
well as the contexts they were written in and for.
2. Improved their skills in analyzing drama and writing formal essays.
Class Overview
The course will engage with eight plays, starting with three comedies, then three history plays, and
finally two problem plays. The material is delivered in nine modules: one introductory one and one
for each of the plays. Assignments will consist of two formal essays, two discussion papers, and a
final examination. There will also be the opportunity for informal discussion with other students.
Your Instructor
Dr. Barry Popowich, Sessional Lecturer, English Department, University of Saskatchewan.
Contact Information
Course contact is via email, to [email protected]. Emails will be checked regularly during the
week, and replies should come within in 24 hours, with the exception of weekends. Please check
your emails regularly for any messages that may have information or instructions for the class.
(Please try to avoid last minute requests.)
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Profile
I have been teaching Shakespeare since 1994, and English literature since 1985, in Saskatoon,
Prince Albert and other Saskatchewan centres, sometimes in live classes, and for ten years also
through televised delivery. (This is the third year for this online class.) I also have worked as a
college administrator for a number of years. Prior to entering teaching, I graduated in Economics
and worked in government and finance for ten years.
Born, raised, and educated in Saskatchewan, I appreciate the opportunity to work with students
now engaged in scholarly work. I currently live on a 115 year-old farm just outside Saskatoon, and
am able to enjoy both rural and urban life on a daily basis, and hope to be able to engage with
students with a wide range of experiences. My teaching philosophy is based upon offering
interesting and worthy course material, and being a model for the analytical methods employed in
studying literature. My interest in Shakespeare goes back to high school literature classes in
eastern Saskatchewan, where I had the good fortune to be taught by gifted teachers.
Required Resources
Readings/Textbooks
Bevington, David. (2016). The Necessary Shakespeare, 5th Edition. Pearson, 2016.
ISBN: 978-0-13-413988-3
Requirements for Essays. Dept of English. University of Saskatchewan. (Free download.)
http://artsandscience.usask.ca/english/pdf/RequirementsForEssays.pdf
Textbooks are available from the University of Saskatchewan Bookstore:
http://www.usask.ca/bookstore/
Electronic Resources
The course modules are available online. In some cases they contain links to supplemental
readings and video material.
Downloads
Any downloads or linked material will be accessible through standard web browsers or Adobe
Reader, which is available free online. To install this software, click this link and follow the
download and installation instructions: http://get.adobe.com/reader.
Supplementary Resources
See the modules in Blackboard as applicable.
Page 2 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Class Schedule
Week
Module
Readings and Media
Evaluation Due
Date
Bevington, David. “Early Comedy” The Necessary
Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David Bevington. New
York, Longman, 2016. xi-xli. [Textbook]
“Reading Shakespeare in the Twenty-First Century.” The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. xi-xiv. [Textbook]
Jan 4-8,
2017
Module 1
Introduction
“Shakespeare's World: A Visual Portfolio.” The Necessary
Shakespeare. Ed. David Bevington. New York: Longman,
2016. inserted between xxxii and xxxiii. [Textbook]
“About Us.” Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan.
http://www.shakespearesask.com/pages/about.html
“Shakespeare in the Park Festivals.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakespeare_in_the_Park_fest
ivals
Shakespeare: Original Pronunciation. Open University.
http://www.open.edu/openlearn/history-thearts/shakespeare-critical-analysis?track=11
Module 2
Jan 9-15,
2017
The
Taming of
the Shrew
Alchin, Linda. “Elizabethan Wedding Customs.”
http://www.william-shakespeare.info/elizabethan-weddingcustoms.htm
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” The Taming of the
Shrew. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed.
David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 2-4.
[Textbook]
Shakespeare, William. The Taming of the Shrew. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Module 3
Jan 16-22,
2017
Jan 23-31,
2017
Much Ado
About
Nothing
Module 4
As You
Like It
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” Much Ado About
Nothing. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed.
David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 113-116.
[Textbook]
First discussion
paper due Jan
16 via
Blackboard
Shakespeare, William. Much Ado About Nothing. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” As You Like It. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 150-154.
[Textbook]
First essay due
by 12:00 pm,
Feb 3 via
Blackboard
Shakespeare, William. As You Like It. The Necessary
Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David Bevington. New
York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Page 3 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Week
Module
Module 5
Feb 1-10,
2017
The First
Part of King
Henry IV
Feb 11-26,
2017
Note: Feb
20-25 MidTerm
Break
Feb 27Mar 8,
2017
Module 6
Henry V
Module 7
Richard III
Module 8
Mar 9-19,
2017
The
Merchant
of Venice
Module 9
Mar 20-Apr
6, 2017
Measure
for
Measure
FINAL
EXAM
Readings and Media
Evaluation Due
Date
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” The First Part of King
Henry the Fourth. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth
Edition. Ed. David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016.
370-373. [Textbook]
First essay due
by 12:00 pm,
Feb 3 via
Blackboard
Shakespeare, William. The First Part of King Henry IV. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” The Life of Henry the
Fifth. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed.
David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 412-416.
[Textbook]
Shakespeare, William. The Life of Henry the Fifth. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” The Tragedy of
Richard III. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed.
David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 270-273.
[Textbook]
Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Richard III. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” The Merchant of
Venice. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed.
David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 227-230.
[Textbook]
Second
discussion
paper due by
Mar 3 via
Blackboard
Second essay
due by 12:00
pm Mar 20 via
Blackboard
Shakespeare, William. The Merchant of Venice. The
Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David
Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Bevington, David. “Introductory Essay.” Measure for
Measure. The Necessary Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed.
David Bevington. New York: Longman, 2016. 74-79.
[Textbook]
Shakespeare, William. Measure for Measure. The Necessary
Shakespeare. Fifth Edition. Ed. David Bevington. New
York: Longman, 2016. [Textbook]
Invigilated
Apr 7-29, 2017
Date/time TBA)
Note: If for any reason the Class Syllabus Reading List does not match the Module Reading List, the Class
Syllabus shall be taken as correct.
Page 4 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Grading Scheme
Two discussion papers (5% each)
10%
First essay
30%
Second essay
30%
Final exam
30%
Total
100%
Information on literal descriptors for grading at the University of Saskatchewan can be found at:
https://students.usask.ca/academics/grading/grading-system.php
Please note: There are different literal descriptors for undergraduate and graduate students.
More information on the Academic Courses Policy on course delivery, examinations and
assessment of student learning can be found at: http://policies.usask.ca/policies/academicaffairs/academic-courses.php
The University of Saskatchewan Learning Charter is intended to define aspirations about the
learning experience that the University aims to provide, and the roles to be played in realizing these
aspirations by students, instructors and the institution. A copy of the Learning Charter can be found
at: http://www.usask.ca/learning_charter/
Evaluation Components
DEU Writing Centre - Quality writing help for free!
Anyone taking a distance class (online, independent studies, televised, or multi–mode delivery)
administered by the DEU can use this free service. The Writing Centre provides tools and support
to help you write effective essays, reports, or reviews. Simply submit a project draft, and a qualified
tutor will assess your work and offer advice to improve your project. Contact the DEU Writing
Centre at distanceeducation.usask.ca/support/writing-centre.php
Assignment 1: First Essay
Value:
30 % of final grade
Due Date:
See Class Schedule
Purpose:
This paper (approx. 8 pages) is to be a formal, persuasive essay, establishing a
thesis and providing supporting evidence from the play under discussion. In addition to the use of
direct quotations from the play under analysis, secondary research from academic sources is also
required.
Description: Use the MLA style format as outlined in Requirements for Essays. You are to
generate your own topic based upon the readings or the suggested discussion topics, but for the
first essay you should consult with me on the topic early in the process. It is expected that you will
choose a play from Modules 2, 3 and 4.
Page 5 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Assignment 2: Second Essay
Value:
30 % of final grade
Due Date:
See Class Schedule
Purpose:
This paper (approx. 8 pages) is to be a formal, persuasive essay, establishing a
thesis and providing supporting evidence from the play under discussion. In addition to the use of
direct quotations from the play under analysis, secondary research from academic sources is also
required.
Description: Use the MLA style format as outlined in Requirements for Essays. You are to
generate your own topic, but may consult with me early in the process. It is expected that you will
choose a play from Modules 5-9.
Information on literal descriptors of grading at the University of Saskatchewan can be found at
https://students.usask.ca/academics/grading/grading-system.php
Discussion Forums
Value:
10% of final grade
Due Date:
See Class Schedule
Purpose:
Students may participate in the Discussion Forums throughout the term. Based on
these discussions and the discussions questions given in the modules students will submit 2
discussion papers (one-half to one page each) via the Evaluations tab on Blackboard for evaluation
and credit.
Description: The discussion papers are to be reactions and possible further questions prompted
by the reading of the plays or related material. They will be graded in response to their focus and
relevance to the material, as well as their clarity of expression. The first paper is to discuss content
or topics from Modules 1-3, and the second from 4-9.
Final Exam
Value:
30% of final grade
Date:
See Class Schedule
Length:
3 hours
Purpose:
The exam will be structured as a number of essay questions based upon the eight
plays studied. It will be invigilated and handwritten.
Description: Paper dictionaries are allowed, but no electronic devices can be used.
The day and time of your final examination will be listed in your PAWS account.
All students will write the final exam in Saskatoon UNLESS you reside more than 110 KM from
Saskatoon. For those students that are more than 110 KM from Saskatoon you will need to
complete the Application for Final Examination Form.
This application form is available at
https://students.usask.ca/academics/exams.php#Distanceclasses.
Students writing in Saskatoon do not need to complete this form.
Page 6 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Submitting Assignments
Assignments are to be submitted electronically via Blackboard. See the course schedule for due
dates.
Additional Information
Must Pass Information
All assignments and the final exam must be completed in order to receive credit for the course. If
an assignment or exam is not completed, then the maximum grade allowable will be 49%
regardless of the weighting of the other assignments.
Late assignments
Late essays will be penalized at 3% per day including weekends. No assignments will be accepted
for grading after April 6, 2017.
Students with Disabilities
Students who have disabilities (learning, medical, physical, or mental health) are strongly
encouraged to register with Disability Services for Students (DSS) if they have not already done so.
Students who suspect they may have disabilities should contact DSS for advice and referrals. In
order to access DSS programs and supports, students must follow DSS policy and procedures. For
more information, check http://www.students.usask.ca/disability/, or contact DSS at 966-7273 or
[email protected].
Integrity Defined (from the Office of the University Secretary)
“Integrity is expected of all students in their academic work – class participation, examinations,
assignments, research, practica – and in their non-academic interactions and activities as well.”
(Office of the University Secretary)
It is your responsibility to be familiar with the University of Saskatchewan policies and procedures
on Academic and Non-Academic Conduct. More information is available at
http://www.usask.ca/secretariat/index.php
Plagiarism is a particular concern and a serious offence. Information on how to recognize
and avoid plagiarism is important to review.
Page 7 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Module Objectives
Module 1: Introduction to the course
1. Examine Shakespeare's place in dramatic literature, and the plays' presence in the past
and present theatre.
2. Compare a play interpreted on film to live stage productions.
3. Explore the society and audience that Shakespeare wrote his plays for originally.
4. Explore the use of Shakespeare's work today.
Module 2: The Taming of the Shrew
1. Examine Shakespeare's comic method, often based upon complications of courtship, love,
family dynamics, and marriage.
2. Identify the key dramatic and comedic elements of this play and how they are presented
through character and action.
3. Investigate how the play reflects the society of the time, particularly in regards to
expectations for marriage.
4. Compare the themes of this play with social and gender expectations of love and courtship;
and,
5. Interpret the place of Kate's final speech in understanding the play's presentation of how
males and females anticipate their roles in marriage.
Module 3: Much Ado About Nothing
1. Analyze Shakespeare's approach to comic drama.
2. Explore the concurrent development of the two love relationships as indicating romantic
expectations.
3. Examine the play's movement to near tragedy, and to appraise the romantic ending of the
play.
Module 4: As You Like It
1. Examine Shakespeare's comic method, again based upon complications of courtship, love,
family and political dynamics, with marriage as the hoped for outcome.
2. Identify the key dramatic and comedic elements of this play and how they are presented
through character, action and setting.
3. Investigate how the play reflects the society of the time, in the two contrasting visions of the
corrupt court and the transforming forest that returns its inhabitants to a better nature.
4. Examine some rare comments in plays of the time in regard to our relationship to the
natural world of animals.
Module 5: The First Part of Henry IV
1. Discuss the relationship of the play's elements and the historical sensibility of the audience,
and to identify the genre characteristics of an English history play.
2. Examine and evaluate the characterization of the King and Prince.
3. Explore the character group centred on Falstaff and how it is used in the presentation.
Page 8 of 9
ENG 224.3 – Shakespeare Comedy and History
Module 6: Henry V
1. Examine Shakespeare's treatment of historical matters from English history, including the
presentation of theme and character, specifically those contained in The First Part of Henry
IV.
2. Identify the key dramatic elements of this play and how they are presented through
character and action.
3. Analyze how leadership challenges are considered in the play with special consideration of
the role of king.
4. Contrast characters central to the story.
5. Analyze the words and style of principal characters.
Module 7: Richard III
1. Examine further Shakespeare's treatment of historical matters from English history,
including the presentation of theme and character, specifically those contained in the
Richard III.
2. Identify the key dramatic elements of this play and how they are presented through
character and action.
3. Analyze the play's presentation of the strategy used by Richard to gain the throne, in
particular his skill in deception and secret actions.
4. Consider how his physical characteristics are suggested as causes to the king's
imperfections of character.
5. Analyze how various female characters' responses to Richard signify him as evil.
Module 8: The Merchant of Venice
1. Summarize and discuss the relationship between justice and mercy.
2. Consider the discussion of the Jewish characters in Christian society.
3. Evaluate the use of romance and business as co-existing motifs.
Module 9: Measure for Measure
1. Examine the use of the law in controlling and regulating human sexual behaviour.
2. Explore the influence of power and personality in the performance of political duty.
3. Consider the character of the duke in his actions and the intent of his proposal at the end of
the play to Isabella.
Acknowledgements
Class Author
Barry Popowich, PhD. University of Saskatchewan
Instructional Design and Class Development
Kristine Dreaver-Charles, B.Ed., M.Sc.Ed., (Instructional Designer, Distance Education Unit,
University of Saskatchewan)
Page 9 of 9