Special Topics in Theatre Studies (240-0-20)

Topic

US Popular Entertainment

Instructors

Chelsea Marie Taylor

Meeting Info

Wirtz 235 Seminar Room 1: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

What do we mean when we call something or someone "American"? Who is included and who is
excluded? How can forms of performance and entertainment help construct or complicate the
porous boundary between "us" and "them"? This course explores how forms of popular
entertainment immediately before, during, and long after the US Civil War worked to shape a
national identity for a divided country. We will trace the ever-shifting concepts of race, ethnicity,
gender, class, and nationality through the popular entertainment practices and inquire how these
performances impacted who was considered an "American." We will examine the following
entertainments: world's fairs and expositions, dime museums, amusement parks, wild west shows,
circuses, theatre, vaudeville, burlesque, and picture shows.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of course concepts through a combination of creative
and research-based assignments. Throughout the quarter, students will refine both their writing and
verbal communication skills by clearly communicating original arguments supported by research in
papers and presentations.

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Materials (Suggested)

All the required readings will be provided by the instructor