Key facts
UNE unit code: ENGL542
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2025
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
The works of Shakespeare have remained central to the appreciation of literature throughout the ages.
This unit focuses on the plays of William Shakespeare. You will study them as the works of a prolific playwright, as products of late 16th and early 17th century England and as canonical texts with a cultural and historical life of their own.
You will consider the plays from the perspectives of their production and genre (comedy, history, tragedy and romance) and in light of circumstances in Shakespeare's context. You’ll also explore how they maintain cultural relevance, and investigate how and why their meanings shift and change.
Whether you are new to Shakespeare or you are wanting to deepen your knowledge, this unit will give you an excellent understanding of his plays and their staggering influence on global cultures.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- independently identify, analyse, and synthesise complex debates within the field of Shakespeare Studies;
- apply an advanced knowledge of the ways by which Shakespeare's texts engage with their cultural, geographic and historical contexts;
- coherently communicate an independent critical analysis and evaluation of a range of Shakespeare's texts;
- apply an advanced knowledge of Shakespeare's texts and relevant theories in the field of Shakespeare Studies; and
- demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the field of Shakespeare Studies and its wider application.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Online Quiz | Yes | 10% | All offerings | No. Words: 500 |
Research Essay | Yes | 40% | All offerings | No. Words: 3500 |
Research Proposal | Yes | 20% | All offerings | No. Words: 1200 |
Take Home Examination | Yes | 30% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Titus Andronicus
ISBN: 9780199536108
Shakespeare, W., Oxford University Press 2008
Text refers to: All offerings
A Midsummer Night's Dream
ISBN: 9780199535866
Shakespeare, W., Oxford University Press 2008
Text refers to: All offerings
Richard II
ISBN: 9780199602285
Shakespeare, W., Oxford University Press Critical ed. 2011
Text refers to: All offerings
Will in the World: How Shakespeare became Shakespeare
ISBN: 9781847924520
Greenblatt, S., Random House Reprint 2016
Text refers to: All offerings
The Tempest
ISBN: 9780199535903
Shakespeare, W., Oxford University Press 2008
Text refers to: All offerings
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