Theatre History - AR578A/B

Theatre History - AR578A/B

Learning Recommendations: Prior enrollment in Theatre Arts 1/2 or Technical Theatre/Advanced Technical Theatre is recommended. Reflect on your ability to work both independently and in groups. Consider your learning goals and challenges.

General Description: Theatre History explores the evolution of theatre from Ancient Greece to Contemporary American Theatre, focusing on performance styles, production technology, dramatic criticism, and theatrical movements. Students will study key developments in global theatre within their social, political, and cultural contexts. Critical thinking and analysis of dramatic literature and historical documents are central to understanding how theatre reflects and shapes society.

Content: 

• Theatrical vocabulary and analytical frameworks
• Ancient Greek and Roman theatre
• Medieval and Liturgical drama
• Italian, English, and Spanish Renaissance theatre
• English Restoration theatre
• French Neo-Classical theatre
• Eastern theatrical traditions
• 19th-century theatre in Europe and the Americas
• Modern theatre (1890–1920)
• Post-war theatre and "The Isms"
• Contemporary theatre (since 1970)

Homework: Expect homework as needed, primarily focusing on reading, analysis, and preparation for projects or presentations.

Note: This course counts as a Fine Art credit for graduation but may not meet the four-year college admissions requirement for Fine/Visual/Performing Arts. Please check with the university or college that you are interested in attending.