Introduction: Theatre Arts History
Introduction
Welcome to Theatre Arts History class! In this class you will learn how to read and analyze significant plays from important periods of history. While there are many important plays, actors, producers, and inventors who have all contributed to the world of theatre, this class does not cover all of theatre history. The intention of this class is to give you an overview of the major movements in theatre, connecting the stories of the plays to the history and culture in which the play was written. You will also explore ideas in contemporary theatre and how those ideas represent our present culture. I have always found it fascinating that we can look to theatre as a barometer of culture—as societies change, this change is reflected in theatre. Since this course fulfills a Fine Arts credit, rather than an essay response, many of the assignments will require a response that will allow the opportunity to explore a number of theatrical careers.
