Iğdır University Lifelong Learning Programme

Description of Individual Course Units

Course Unit Code	Course Unit Title	Type of Course Unit	Year of Study	Semester	Number of ECTS Credits
190301503103	ENGLISH THEATRE	Compulsory	2	3	5

Level of Course Unit

First Cycle

Objectives of the Course

The aim of this course is to explore the development and diversity of British theatre from its historical origins to contemporary forms. Students will examine how social, cultural, and political factors have shaped theatrical practices, analyze seminal texts and critical theories, and engage in discussions that deepen their understanding of dramatic art. By integrating lectures, readings, and interactive sessions, the course seeks to cultivate analytical skills and creative insights that enable students to critically assess the evolution of British drama and its global influence.

Name of Lecturer(s)

Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Özden Dere

Learning Outcomes

1	To understand and articulate the historical development and theoretical frameworks underpinning British theatre.
2	To analyze key texts and performances to identify recurring themes and the influence of cultural, social, and political contexts.
3	To critically evaluate how dramatic practices have evolved in response to changing societal dynamics.
4	To employ research methodologies to explore primary and secondary sources within British theatre studies.
5	To communicate analytical insights effectively through written essays, presentations, and class discussions.

Mode of Delivery

Daytime Class

Prerequisites and co-requisities

Recommended Optional Programme Components

Course Contents

This course provides an in-depth exploration of British theatre through a chronological journey that begins with medieval liturgical dramas, advances through the Renaissance with Shakespeare and his contemporaries, and moves into the modern and postmodern eras marked by experimentation and socio-political commentary. Students will engage with key texts and performances, analyze the influence of historical and cultural contexts on dramatic expression, and investigate the evolution of stagecraft, genre, and audience reception. The curriculum emphasizes critical discussion, research, and practical application to illuminate the dynamic relationship between theatrical form and British society.

Weekly Detailed Course Contents

Week	Theoretical	Practice	Laboratory
1	Course Introduction Overview of course objectives, syllabus review, and an introduction to the key themes and historical context of British theatre.
2	Medieval Drama and Liturgical Plays Exploration of early theatrical practices, including liturgical dramas and the origins of mystery plays.
3	Mystery and Morality Plays Examination of religious drama in medieval Britain, focusing on the narrative and cultural significance of mystery and morality plays.
4	Renaissance Theatre: Elizabethan & Jacobean Drama Study of the flourishing of theatre during the Renaissance with an emphasis on Shakespeare, Marlowe, and other key figures.
5	Restoration and 18th Century Theatre Analysis of dramatic changes post-Restoration, including the development of comedy of manners, satire, and new theatrical forms.
6	19th Century Theatre: Victorian Era Investigation of Victorian theatre, focusing on melodrama, spectacle, and the emergence of social realism on stage.
7	Midterm Exam Comprehensive midterm assessment covering Weeks 1–6, followed by review and discussion.
8	Early 20th Century Modernism Exploration of modernist trends, innovations in dramatic form, and the transition towards contemporary theatre.
9	Post-War British Theatre Discussion of experimental and fringe theatre movements emerging in the post-war era and their socio-political impacts.
10	Contemporary British Theatre Analysis of modern trends, including political theatre, identity, and the global influence of British drama.
11	Special Topics: Diverse Voices Focus on the contributions and challenges of women, minority, and alternative voices in British theatre
12	Case Studies in Seminal Plays In-depth analysis of selected key texts and performances that have defined British theatrical practice.
13	Synthesis and Review Integrative sessions aimed at consolidating critical perspectives, preparing for the final assessment.
14	Final Exam Comprehensive final examination covering the entire course content.

Recommended or Required Reading

The Cambridge History of British Theatre The Cambridge Companion to English Renaissance Theatre The Cambridge Companion to Contemporary British and Irish Theatre The Oxford Illustrated History of Theatre

Planned Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Assessment Methods and Criteria

Term (or Year) Learning Activities	Quantity	Weight
Midterm Examination	1	20
Attending Lectures	14	10
Discussion	14	10
Project Presentation	1	10
Writing Paper	1	10
Individual Study for Mid term Examination	1	10
Individual Study for Final Examination	1	10
Homework	1	20
SUM		100
End Of Term (or Year) Learning Activities	Quantity	Weight
Final Examination	1	50
Writing Paper	1	25
Individual Study for Final Examination	1	25
SUM		100
Term (or Year) Learning Activities		70
End Of Term (or Year) Learning Activities		30
SUM		100

Language of Instruction

English

Work Placement(s)

Workload Calculation

Activities	Number	Time (hours)	Total Work Load (hours)
Midterm Examination	1	1	1
Final Examination	1	20	20
Attending Lectures	14	1	14
Discussion	14	1	14
Project Presentation	1	10	10
Writing Paper	1	20	20
Individual Study for Mid term Examination	1	20	20
Individual Study for Final Examination	1	20	20
Homework	1	20	20
TOTAL WORKLOAD (hours)			139

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* Contribution Level : 1 Very low 2 Low 3 Medium 4 High 5 Very High