Introduction to Theatrical Contexts and Research (160-2-27)

Topic

Theat&Politics in Mod Germany

Instructors

Hannah Sophie Probst

Meeting Info

Wirtz 240 Seminar Room: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

How does performance respond to essential questions of society, politics and history? Theatrical practices in 20th century Germany provide ample opportunities to reflect on this question, as they unfolded in tandem with the turbulence of declining empire, revolution and world war, fascism and genocide, socialism and Cold War politics, and neoliberal economic policy. This course will explore the fantastic diversity of theatrical experimentation that has made modern Germany a hub for the emergence of new performance forms.

Together, we will consider forms such as naturalist drama, expressionism, documentary theatre and epic theatre. We will also discuss phenomena like dance theatre, cabaret and fascist spectacle, which expand the definition of performance beyond plays with spoken text. Our analysis will consider the social and political role of performance, as the artists we encounter engage with struggles around labor, gender, sexuality, race and nation. Though the primary focus is on work from the 20th century, the course also includes some contemporary pieces.

This class equips students with critical modes of thinking about theatre as an academic discipline and practice. It features a range of analytical skills and critical approaches for play and performance analysis, incorporating aspects of theatre history, historiography, and performance theory. Through class discussions, readings, study of plays and performances, creative responses, and written assignments, students will develop their analytical skills and learn to craft research papers in a guided process.

Registration Requirements

First-year Theatre majors, attend at 1st class mand

Class Materials (Required)

No cost

Class Attributes

SoC Humanities and Fine Arts Distro