Perspectives from the Stage: Actors Discuss Romeo and Juliet (Coursera)

In completing this course, learners will be able to describe the plot of Romeo & Juliet, identify major characters and themes, analyze and interpret heightened text, and consider multiple theatrical approaches to the play.

What You Will Learn

B​y successfully completing this course, you will be able to describe the plot of Romeo and Juliet and identify major characters and themes.

- Y​ou will be able to analyze and interpret heightened text.

- Y​ou will be able to describe multiple theatrical approaches to Shakespeare's plays.

Syllabus

WEEK 1

Act 1: Introductions

In this module, you will be introduced to the course and some of the major characters in the play. You’ll hear perspectives on the major events in Act 1, including the feud between the Capulets and the Montagues, Romeo’s lovesickness for Rosaline, the marriage being planned for Juliet and Paris, and Capulet’s party, where Romeo and Juliet meet for the first time.

WEEK 2

Act 2: The Courtship

In this module, you’ll hear perspectives on the major events in Act 2, including the whirlwind courtship and secret marriage of Romeo & Juliet, and the increasing involvement of people close to them, including Mercutio, Benvolio, Friar Lawrence and the Nurse.

WEEK 3

Act 3: The Fight

In this module, you’ll hear perspectives on the major events in Act 3, where the romantic comedy begins to pivot towards tragedy. Our actors discuss the fights that take place in this act as well as the aftermath of those fights.

WEEK 4

Act 4: The Last Hope

In this module, you’ll hear perspectives on the major events in Act 4, including the Capulets planning a wedding for Juliet and Paris, and Romeo, Juliet and the Friar planning something very different.

WEEK 5

Act 5: The Tragedy

In this concluding module, our actors discuss the final events of this remarkable play, and offer personal takeaways from having performed in it, as well as reflections on why this play is still so widely read and performed today, over 400 years after it was written.