Course overview

Discovering Shakespeare is a short accessible adult-education course that explores how Shakespeare transformed the English stage, shaped the language we still use today, and developed as a playwright over the course of his life.

We will embark upon a broad survey of Shakespeare’s work, exploring the early modern theatrical context, the major forms in which he wrote and the development of his writing during his life. There will be a strong emphasis on the placing Shakespeare in context, as we chart Shakespeare’s responses to contemporary social, political and religious concerns, but we will also look at how the plays and their powerful language work to convey powerful messages. We will also think about Shakespeare's work in relation to the records of his life, asking how much his personal life had an impact on writing.

In the classes we will spend some time looking at short extracts of text, but the main focus be on watching scenes from filmed productions and discussing their effect on the audience.

This course is intended as a broad introduction to Shakespeare and his plays. 

Our tutor, Dr Sarah James, former Head of English at the University of Kent, is an enthusiastic and welcoming tutor, who will guide you through Shakespeare's work, so don't be put off by the language of the plays or any previous experience of studying Shakespeare. This will be a very different way of looking at Shakespeare!

This is an introductory course, ideal for those new to Shakespeare or returning to him after some time away. It also provides a foundation for a planned follow-on course in the autumn, which will explore the plays in greater depth.

No prior experience or qualifications are necessary. All welcome!

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).