This Paper will offer an
introduction to the Renaissance period in English literature. One key focus
will be on the development of the sonnet, during this period, in the context of
other lyrical writings. The second key focus will be a reading of a selection
of plays by Shakespeare’s in the different genres in which he wrote. Copies of
the poetry will be supplied, but students are encouraged to acquire a complete
works of Shakespeare, or hard copy texts of the plays – many of which can be
found second-hand. All the texts are available in electronic format, and a
range of productions of the dramas can be watched on YouTube. Students in the past
have found this Paper challenging but very rewarding, especially for their work
as teachers.