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Module descriptionÌýÌý

This module interrogates cultural transfer through translation from the perspective of theatrical performance. Recent productions of European theatre translated between various European languages and English will be studied on a thematic basis using play texts in the original and in translation, supplemented by recorded visual material. The sessions will examine the reception in translation of a selection of playwrights across Europe, from the canonical Medea by Euripides to Carlo Goldoni’s A Servant of Two Masters and may include Shakespeare and Ibsen. The module provides an introduction to performance and cultural theory, including Bertolt Brecht, and a consideration of key issues such as collaboration, rewriting or adaptation, invisibility and foreignization. Primary texts will be studied in English, but as the aim of the course is to compare different translations and performances, students will be invited to contribute from the perspective of their individual studied language(s) and culture(s).Ìý

Teaching deliveryÌý

The core lectures introduce the topics and the playtexts in context, as well as surrounding critical debates and theoretical approaches to translation. Small group seminars are based on focused analysis and student discussion of close readings of different kinds of source materials and their evaluation.Ìý

Details of which specific text and performances will be the primary focus may vary from year to year. A trip may be scheduled during the module to view a recorded performance at the National Theatre archive.Ìý

Recommended ReadingÌý

The module reading and viewing will be made available online as well as other resources such as youtube video clips. Guidelines on how to write your essay will also be posted on Moodle.Ìý

Please note: this module description is accurate at the time of publication. Amendments may be made prior to the start of the academic year.ÌýÌý