Lake Forest College Department of Theater, THTR 358

Instructor: D. Ohlandt

Dramatic Theory
Spring 2007-08

An exploration of how theories of drama have evolved into theories of dramatic performance and most recently into the field of "performance studies." Starting with the end of the 19th century and the birth of "modern" drama, we examine how theories of what drama should be came to influence ways of making theater. In the second half of the term, we turn our attention to theories of performance as they grew out of (and eventually moved away from) theories of drama. Theorists of interest will include Antonin Artaud, Bertolt Brecht, Richard Schechner, Judith Butler, Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, and Gay McAuley.

Course objectives:

  1. To chart the evolution of dramatic theory into performance theory and performance studies.
  2. To develop a conceptual "toolbox" for analyzing drama and performances of all kinds.
  3. To identify social and historical influences in the development of dramatic theories.
  4. To practice reading literary theory for comprehension.
  5. To apply abstract theoretical concepts in clear thinking and writing.