Literature: Ancient Greek tragedy: Sophocles’ Theban plays
Course details
Course code
Q00013754Course date
Number of classes
6 sessionsTimetable
Tutor
Kim ShahabudinFee range
How you'll learn
Venue
OnlineLevel of study
Entry Levels 1,2,3: If you have never studied this subject before and you’re not confident in your skills, Entry levels are a good starting point.
Level 1: Covers basic skills and knowledge needed for this subject
Level 2: Building on basic knowledge or experience. Similar to Grade 4/ C at GCSE or O level in England or Standards in Scotland.
Level 3: Learn about the topic in-depth and have a broad range of skills. Independent working Equivalent to an A level in England or Higher in Scotland.
Beginners: A perfect introduction if you have no experience and skills in this subject.
Improvers: The next step if you have basic skills or knowledge but want to progress them further.
Advanced: Build on the solid experience and skills you have in this subject, applying your skills and knowledge in a more complex way.
Availability
Course overview
Course description
Ancient Greek tragedies have held an enduring interest for audiences and readers since their first performances in Athens in the 5th century BCE. Performed with both ancient and modern settings, revised and adapted, they retain their relevance to human action and understanding. In this course we will study three linked plays by Sophocles that focus on the story of Oedipus, king of Thebes, and his efforts to avoid fate: Oedipus Rex, Oedipus at Colonus and Antigone, together known as the Theban plays.
This course will take a close look at the three plays, considering themes, characters and how (or whether) the plays work together as a trilogy. Through friendly and accessible discussion of extracts from the texts, we will learn more about the plays and their key features. Students will develop a better understanding of their continued popularity and relevance to audiences and readers over the centuries since they were first performed.
While you will get the most from the course by reading the plays in their entirety, short extracts for discussion will be downloadable from Canvas, where links to further reading will also be provided for those who wish to extend their learning. All texts will be studied in English translation: no previous knowledge is assumed.
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What other support is available?
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