This is a reading and conversational class that will study 4 major plays outside of Shakespeare's canon:
"The Tragedy of Mariam" by Elizabeth Cary
"The Convent of Pleasure" by Margaret Cavendish
"The Rover" by Aphra Behn

Not only will we read and analyze these plays, but each class will include a discussion of how these plays impacted and were influenced by the time period in which they were written as well as the gender roles of the society in which they lived. We will examine each play from a contemporary standpoint and from a modern aspect, questioning the intentions of the playwright and wondering how these specific shows would play to a modern audience. There is no requirement to be familiar with any of these writers! We will have open discourse about these shows, read them aloud, and watch some professional interpretations of pivotal scenes. The class culminates with an independent project around a topic proposed by the student.

Week 1 - Introduction to Early British Drama and the relationship of women to the stage; Introduction to Eizabeth Cary; begin "The Tragedy of Miriam"
Week 2 - Continue "The Tragedy of Mariam;" discuss gender roles in Elizabethan society
Week 3 - Conclude "The Tragedy of Mariam;" introduction to project; introduction to Margaret Cavendish; begin "The Convent of Pleasure"
Week 4 - Continue "The Convent of Pleasure;" discuss progress of women in theatre
Week 5 - Conclude "The Convent of Pleasure;" project proposals; introduction to Aphra Behn, Begin "The Rover"
Week 6 - Continue "The Rover;" project check-in; discuss influence of women on design and forward movement in theatre
Week 7 - Conclude "The Rover;" discuss through-lines and modern echoes of the work of these women; final project check-in
Week 8 - Project presentations and completion certificates given

Example class covenant:
-We welcome and affirm learners of all abilities and all walks of life.
-We understand that our differences in opinion and learning style can lead to more dynamic learning.
-We will not tolerate hate speech, bullying, and other negative behavior toward each other.
-We will follow the classroom guidelines for Outschool that are there to keep us safe and geared toward learning.
-We will manage risk so that our class can be fun, safe, and fascinating!