Time Schedule:
Barbara J Henry
RUSS 425
Seattle Campus
Analysis of history and development of Russian drama from the 18th century to present times. Playwrights featured include Alexander Griboedev, Alexander Ostrovsky, Anton Chekhov, Vladimir Mayakovsky, and others. Taught in English.
Class description
This course will examine the roots and development of drama and theatre in Russia from the late 17th through the 20th century. We will look at early proto-theatrical folk rituals, the first Russian play, adaptations of Western drama to Russian tastes, and at the development of a distinct Russian theatrical tradition in the 19th century. We will examine the rise of Realism, challenges offered to it by Symbolist and Modernist playwrights and directors, concepts of “high” and “low” theatre, the cabaret movement, Stanislavsky’s “System”, the Russian Revolution on stage and square, theatre and propaganda, and the gradual sclerosis of theatrical expression by late 1930s. We will also be looking at some of the more metaphysical aspects of theatre, such as the nature of mimesis and illusion, acting and representation.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lecture/discussion, short presentations by students
Recommended preparation
Be prepared to contribute to class discussion, to prepare short presentations, possibly perform in a scene or two
Class assignments and grading
reading, presentations in class, take-home midterm and final essays, possible in-class performance of scenes (optional)
participation, essay grades, presentations
