As Harold Bloom described it, King Lear “announces the beginning and the end of human nature and destiny.” A grandiose statement, but one with which it is difficult to argue. This course will explore the various – and widely divergent -- schools of thought on Lear. It will also consider how Shakespeare reshaped the tragic mindset, challenging the assumptions of his society. We will view a video production of the play (with James Earl Jones as Lear), accompanied by lecture material and interactive class discussion. The course will be an in-depth examination of what may be the greatest tragedy ever written. Note: Suggested reading: King Lear, Arden Shakespeare, Third Series edition, edited by R. A. Foakes.
