In this course, the student will attempt to determine why Shakespeare's works have become so widely revered. The student will begin by familiarizing ourselves with Elizabethan theatre, language, and culture, then conduct close readings of Shakespeare's most acclaimed plays, ending with his poetry. By the end of this course, you will have developed a strong understanding of Shakespeare's works and working knowledge of the Elizabethan Period in which he wrote. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: identify, compare, and contrast the major dramas and poems produced by William Shakespeare; describe Shakespeare's identity as well as provide an account of his life and the legacy of his work; describe Elizabethan England in social and historical context; list the major figures who likely shaped the work of Shakespeare; explain the origins of Shakespearean drama in Greek theater; define a variety of Shakespearean dramatic forms, including Shakespearean tragedy, history, and comedy plays; identify and describe the major themes of Shakespearean tragedy, comedy, and history plays; explain the roots of the Shakespearean sonnet in earlier sonnet traditions; identify and describe the major themes and ideas at work in Shakespearean sonnets. (English Literature 401)