Syllabus

DRAM 358: Topics in Dramatic Literature: Storytelling.

3 credit hours • January 14 - May 28, 2008 • MWF, 1:45-2:35 pm

Instructor: David Novak (adjunct)
E-Mail: novateller@aol.com
Office Hours: by appointment

Catalogue Description
358 Topics in Dramatic Literature, Theory, or History (3)
Close examination of selected playwrights, eras, genres, styles, theories, or themes in theatre.

Overall Objective
To identify the elements and influences of historical storytelling in dramatic literature, notably modern American solo performance.

Course Narrative
We will study and analyze storytelling as a performing art by surveying:
a. the history of storytelling traditions in a variety of cultures,
b. the contemporary storytelling revival in America,
c. the history of theatre in Western Civilization, and
d. contemporary trends in theatrical performance.
Finally, we will compare and contrast solo performance by actors with solo performance by storytellers.

Methods
Readings, lectures, discussions, A/V recordings, writing assignments, journaling (class blog), and essay tests.

Core Texts
The World of Storytelling by Anne Pellowski
Talk To Me: Monologue Plays edited by Eric Lane and Nina Shengold
Various A/V materials, live performances, and resources from the world wide web.

Assignments & Requirements
Students are expected to attend and participate fully in discussions and class activities.
Each student is expected to participate in a class Web Log of responses and thoughts on class work.
There will be two essay-based exams: Mid-Term and Final.
Other writing assignments will include response papers to readings and performances, and opinion papers addressing topic queries.

Note: as of this writing not all course materials have arrived. As a result, reading assignments cannot be determined.Attendance
Attendance is mandatory. Two absences are granted for the semester. Beyond that, a 2 point deduction will be taken from the final grade (for each additional absence). Class notes and assignments missed during absence(s) must be made up by the next class.

Grading Policy:
Attendance = 10%
Participation = 20% (in class and online)
Assignments = 20%
Mid-Term = 25%
Final = 25%

*Extra Credit may be available as opportunity permits.

Grading Scale:
99-100: A+
95-98: A
90-94: A-
88-89: B+
85-87: B
80-84: B-
78-79: C+
75-77: C
70-74: C-
60-69: D
<60: F