Department of English

Renaissance England--a time of economic expansion, court intrigue, and literary giants. What was it like to live in the culture that produced Shakespeare and Marlowe, Spenser and Donne, Queen Elizabeth and King James? This course will introduce you to the culture and writing of this remarkable period. We will explore a variety of literary texts in conjunction with other historical materials, such as maps, anatomical treatises, legal documents, and engravings. How did people eat and drink, work and play, mourn and celebrate? What did they wear? What did they believe about God, the human body, and the world? These and other similar questions will form the basis of our collective investigation. In addition to written work, active class participation and at least one oral presentation will be required.