Description of Individual Course Units
Course Unit CodeCourse Unit TitleType of Course UnitYear of StudySemesterNumber of ECTS Credits
190301503103ENGLISH THEATRECompulsory235
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
1To understand and articulate the historical development and theoretical frameworks underpinning British theatre.
2To analyze key texts and performances to identify recurring themes and the influence of cultural, social, and political contexts.
3To critically evaluate how dramatic practices have evolved in response to changing societal dynamics.
4To employ research methodologies to explore primary and secondary sources within British theatre studies.
5To 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
WeekTheoreticalPracticeLaboratory
1Course Introduction Overview of course objectives, syllabus review, and an introduction to the key themes and historical context of British theatre.
2Medieval Drama and Liturgical Plays Exploration of early theatrical practices, including liturgical dramas and the origins of mystery plays.
3Mystery and Morality Plays Examination of religious drama in medieval Britain, focusing on the narrative and cultural significance of mystery and morality plays.
4Renaissance Theatre: Elizabethan & Jacobean Drama Study of the flourishing of theatre during the Renaissance with an emphasis on Shakespeare, Marlowe, and other key figures.
5Restoration and 18th Century Theatre Analysis of dramatic changes post-Restoration, including the development of comedy of manners, satire, and new theatrical forms.
619th Century Theatre: Victorian Era Investigation of Victorian theatre, focusing on melodrama, spectacle, and the emergence of social realism on stage.
7Midterm Exam Comprehensive midterm assessment covering Weeks 1–6, followed by review and discussion.
8Early 20th Century Modernism Exploration of modernist trends, innovations in dramatic form, and the transition towards contemporary theatre.
9Post-War British Theatre Discussion of experimental and fringe theatre movements emerging in the post-war era and their socio-political impacts.
10Contemporary British Theatre Analysis of modern trends, including political theatre, identity, and the global influence of British drama.
11Special Topics: Diverse Voices Focus on the contributions and challenges of women, minority, and alternative voices in British theatre
12Case Studies in Seminal Plays In-depth analysis of selected key texts and performances that have defined British theatrical practice.
13Synthesis and Review Integrative sessions aimed at consolidating critical perspectives, preparing for the final assessment.
14Final 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 ActivitiesQuantityWeight
Midterm Examination120
Attending Lectures1410
Discussion1410
Project Presentation110
Writing Paper110
Individual Study for Mid term Examination110
Individual Study for Final Examination110
Homework120
SUM100
End Of Term (or Year) Learning ActivitiesQuantityWeight
Final Examination150
Writing Paper125
Individual Study for Final Examination125
SUM100
Term (or Year) Learning Activities70
End Of Term (or Year) Learning Activities30
SUM100
Language of Instruction
English
Work Placement(s)
Workload Calculation
ActivitiesNumberTime (hours)Total Work Load (hours)
Midterm Examination111
Final Examination12020
Attending Lectures14114
Discussion14114
Project Presentation11010
Writing Paper12020
Individual Study for Mid term Examination12020
Individual Study for Final Examination12020
Homework12020
TOTAL WORKLOAD (hours)139
Contribution of Learning Outcomes to Programme Outcomes
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LO15               
LO25               
LO35               
LO45               
LO55               
* Contribution Level : 1 Very low 2 Low 3 Medium 4 High 5 Very High
 
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