Explore Literature: Queer Shakespeare - Gender, Desire, and Performance

$180.00

This course invites students to step beyond traditional readings of the Bard and explore the vibrant, complex world of gender and sexual identity embedded within some of his most iconic plays. Forget everything you thought you knew about Elizabethan society and dive into a world where characters challenge norms, defy expectations, and express desires that resonate powerfully even today. Through close analysis of cross-dressing heroines, intense friendships that blur lines (Antonio and Bassiano are not just roommates), and fierce individuals who defy the rigid gender roles of their time, we'll uncover how Shakespeare's genius offers a surprisingly fluid and nuanced understanding of human identity.

This course isn't just about literary analysis; it's about connecting with timeless stories on a deeply personal level. We'll engage in lively discussions, creative projects, and critical thinking that illuminate the historical context of Shakespeare's time while also drawing powerful parallels to contemporary understandings of gender and sexuality. Prepare to see Twelfth Night, Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice, and Romeo and Juliet in a whole new light, challenging assumptions and discovering the revolutionary ways Shakespeare's plays continue to speak to our diverse and evolving identities.

This course invites students to step beyond traditional readings of the Bard and explore the vibrant, complex world of gender and sexual identity embedded within some of his most iconic plays. Forget everything you thought you knew about Elizabethan society and dive into a world where characters challenge norms, defy expectations, and express desires that resonate powerfully even today. Through close analysis of cross-dressing heroines, intense friendships that blur lines (Antonio and Bassiano are not just roommates), and fierce individuals who defy the rigid gender roles of their time, we'll uncover how Shakespeare's genius offers a surprisingly fluid and nuanced understanding of human identity.

This course isn't just about literary analysis; it's about connecting with timeless stories on a deeply personal level. We'll engage in lively discussions, creative projects, and critical thinking that illuminate the historical context of Shakespeare's time while also drawing powerful parallels to contemporary understandings of gender and sexuality. Prepare to see Twelfth Night, Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice, and Romeo and Juliet in a whole new light, challenging assumptions and discovering the revolutionary ways Shakespeare's plays continue to speak to our diverse and evolving identities.

Academic Fine-Print for Grownups:

Overall Learning Objectives:

  • Analyze Shakespearean texts for themes related to gender roles, identity, sexuality, and social prejudice.

  • Identify and discuss literary devices used by Shakespeare to portray complex characters and relationships.

  • Understand the historical context of Elizabethan attitudes towards gender, sexuality, and religious/ethnic minorities.

  • Compare and contrast Shakespearean representations with contemporary perspectives on gender, sexual identity, and social justice.

  • Engage in respectful and critical discussion about sensitive topics.

  • Develop strong analytical writing and presentation skills.

For your Curriculum Records, we will cover:

  • Historical Context

  • Critical Thinking

  • Classic Literature

  • Philosophy

  • Ethics

  • Creative Writing

Required Texts:

  • Shakespeare, William. Twelfth Night (any unabridged edition)

  • Shakespeare, William. Macbeth (any unabridged edition)

  • Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet (any unabridged edition)

  • Shakespeare, William. The Merchant of Venice (any unabridged edition)

Dates and Location:

Section A: Ages 12+ will meet Wednesdays from 5-6pm Eastern, and will run from Wednesday, September 10, 2025 through Wednesday, October 29, 2025. All 8 classes will be held over Zoom.

Class Etiquette: I expect and require gentle, respectful language in my classes, and ask that all students come to class prepared to treat each other with kindness. These classes are a great opportunity for your kiddos to practice social/soft skills, with the underlying perspective that we’re all in this together.