This course begins with the premise that the plays of Shakespeare are too often taught in the classroom as difficult and rather obscure sacred texts. The aim of this course is to remind you that Shakespeare was not only a great poet, but also a great dramatist, and to show that his plays are still exciting and dynamic as theatre. Consequently, this course is structured around the Shakespeare plays which are currently in production in London and Stratford-upon-Avon, so that Shakespeare can be seen and heard as well as read.