| Kommentar |
The customary narrative of U.S.-American drama and theatrical performance tends to privilege male playwrights and therefore giving their female counterparts only limited recognition and critical appraisal. Yet, female playwrights such as Lorraine Hansberry, Wendy Wasserstein, Marsha Norman, Paula Vogel or Lynn Nottage have a significant impact on the development of contemporary drama and theatrical performance. This seminar examines the various ways in which these female playwrights engaged with societal changes, feminist movements, political issues as well as questions of personal/female and national identity. Through close readings and discussions, students should find connections between the plays and significant societal issues. Furthermore, students will be introduced to key authors and concepts of performance theory since these theories draw attention to the performative nature of human society as well as interesting observations of rigid societal norms and ways of resistance and rebellion. Therefore, looking at these theories alongside the close reading of individual dramas will provide students with a profound insight into the significance of contemporary female drama and the issues it touches upon. |
