Shakespeare’s Richard the Second

This course will offer an in-depth reading and discussion of Shakespeare’s history play, The Tragedy of King Richard the Second. The play will offer a setting for discussion surrounding the nature of both Shakespearean history and tragedy, the art of decision-making, the ethics of leadership, and the implications of Shakespeare’s work on our everyday lives. Students will use Richard II as a backdrop for writing a classically oriented academic essay.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of the course, learners will:

1. Identify and understand the plot elements that comprise Richard II
2. Hone their close-reading skills
3. Be able to identify and apply the truths of Richard II to their own lives
4. Practice the assessment and judgement of a classical text and the actions of its characters
5. Create a logically sound, beautifully structured academic essay

Texts:

• The Tragedy of King Richard the Second
• The Office of Assertion by Scott F. Crider