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Performance Philosophy: Thinking Through Theatre

Key information

  • Module code:

    6AAEC013

  • Level:

    6

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module explores the relationship between performance events (both inside and outside the theatre) and philosophical ideas of identity, ethics, and politics. The emphasis is not on the way that philosophy can explain performance, or vice versa, but instead on the ways in which the two are inter- related. For this reason, as much significance will be given to performances and their documentation as to philosophical or political tracts.

Across the module, we will follow a very broad historical trajectory, beginning with Plato’s anti-theatricalism and ending with the ‘relational aesthetics’ of contemporary Western art. You will have the opportunity to read three canonical works of the Western dramatic canon, Oedipus Rex by Sophocles, King Lear by William Shakespeare and The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht. But in each instance the discussion that ensues from these texts will be less about their literary merits and more about their potential for practices and politics.

Along the way we will address questions of acting and mimesis, phenomenology, the transcendence of representation, and the particular role of the spectator/witness. Throughout the module, the recurring emphasis will be on the relationship between these ideas and the problematic idea of ‘the political’: in what ways does performance allow us to rethink the possibilities of ethics and politics? 

 

 

Assessment details

Coursework

1 x 4,000 word research paper (100% of final mark)

Teaching pattern

Two hour seminar, weekly; film screenings, performance and site visits, selected weeks

Suggested reading list

Ideal reading prior to this course would be: Stern, Tom. Philosophy and Theatre. London: Routledge, 2013.

Subject areas

Department


Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.