Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shakespeare
If you’ve ever found yourself pondering the true authorship of Shakespeare’s works, you’re not alone. The question of who really wrote these timeless pieces has vexed scholars and enthusiasts alike for centuries. To dive deep into this intriguing subject, I recently took the ‘Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare’ course offered by the University of London on Coursera, and I must say, it was an enlightening experience.
### Course Overview
This free course is brilliantly designed to introduce students to the Shakespeare authorship question while honing critical thinking and text interpretation skills. The course invites participants to explore forensic analysis of primary texts, equipping them with literary analysis strategies and argument construction skills.
### Syllabus Breakdown
Each week of the course builds your understanding methodically:
1. **Understanding the Question:** The introductory week lays the groundwork, explaining the key terms, concepts, and arguments surrounding the debate on Shakespeare’s authorship. More importantly, it encourages learners to examine their perceptions and assumptions, critical skills for analyzing literary evidence. The practical exercise in close reading was an excellent way to engage students from the get-go.
2. **The Man and the Author:** Here, the course delves into the identity of William Shakspere and his alleged connection to William Shakespeare. The exploration of “Hand D” in *Sir Thomas More*, arguments concerning Shakspere’s coat of arms, and references to events in Shakespeare’s life were fascinating. This section forced me to confront and question long-held beliefs about who Shakespeare really was.
3. **The Evidence from Stratford-upon-Avon:** This module presents personal accounts and testimonies that tie Shakespeare to his hometown. Learning about claims regarding the literacy of his daughters and analyzing local references within plays was particularly intriguing, as it sheds light on how geography can intertwine with authorship disputes.
4. **The First Folio as Proof of Authorship:** In the culminating week, the course guides you through the analysis of a critical text – the 1623 First Folio of Shakespeare’s works. Learning how this collection plays a significant role in the ongoing authorship debate was indispensable, especially as you apply learned textual analysis skills.
### Why You Should Take This Course
Whether you’re a seasoned Shakespeare aficionado or a curious beginner, this course has something for everyone. It encourages open-minded discussion and critical examination of long-accepted notions. With no prior literary analysis experience required, it’s accessible and structured in a way that nurtures your analytical abilities.
In a world filled with misinformation and multiple interpretations, being a discerning reader is crucial. This meticulous exploration of the Shakespeare authorship question not only enriches your understanding of Renaissance literature but also hones your critical thinking skills – tools that are invaluable across various fields.
Overall, I highly recommend the ‘Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare’ course for anyone interested in literature, history, and the art of thinking critically. You’ll come away with a greater appreciation for Shakespeare’s work and the complex question of authorship that continues to intrigue scholars worldwide.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shakespeare