An in-depth study of the plays and sonnets of Shakespeare with emphasis on the great tragedies. Works by Shakespeare's contemporaries may be included. Plays are read closely and analyzed in conjunction with the reading of criticism and theory. Live performances, readings, videos, and electronic resources will be used as appropriate. Students will be expected to write papers which demonstrate an informed close reading of the primary texts, as well as competence in library research and in the evaluation of theoretical and critical approaches.