Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shakespeare
For anyone intrigued by literature, drama, and the perplexities of authorship debates, the ‘Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare’ course offered by the University of London on Coursera is a must-try. This free course immerses students in critical thinking and literary analysis through the fascinating lens of the Shakespeare authorship question.
From the onset, the course lays out a well-structured syllabus beginning with an introduction to the authorship debate. Participants will engage with arguments both for and against William Shakespeare as the author of the works attributed to him. The course begins by guiding learners to understand how personal beliefs and preconceived notions can influence our reading and interpretation of texts — a crucial skill for anyone interested in literature.
The second module, ‘The Man and the Author’, dives into the complexities surrounding the identity of Shakespeare. It raises thought-provoking questions about the historical connections between the man from Stratford and the acclaimed playwright. The module presents arguments linking Shakespeare to his works, including intriguing discussions about the infamous “Hand D” of Sir Thomas More and references that sparked authorship doubt in the early 1600s.
As students progress into the third module, ‘The Evidence from Stratford-upon-Avon’, the course takes a deeper dive into local testimonies and the cultural context of Shakespeare’s life. Through a detailed look at testimony from individuals like Michael Drayton and Shakespeare’s family, learners gain insight into the importance of place in shaping a literary legacy. The discussion also touches upon the literacy of Shakespeare’s daughters, local references in his plays, and the significance of memorials — all crucial to understanding the context in which Shakespeare created his works.
The final module, ‘The First Folio as Proof of Authorship’, brings everything together as it explores the 1623 First Folio — an essential text in the authorship debate. Here, students apply the analytical skills they’ve learned throughout the course to scrutinize the pivotal components of this historical document and its role in establishing Shakespeare’s literary claim.
Overall, ‘Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare’ is not only enriching but also incredibly engaging. With its combination of literary theory, historical inquiry, and critical analysis, it empowers students to think deeply about authorship itself. This course is highly recommended for students, educators, and anyone with a love for literature seeking to broaden their understanding of one of the most enduring literary mysteries.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shakespeare