Disavowing Authority in the Shakespeare Classroom

This Element explores the role of authority in Shakespeare teaching, drawing from critical thinking about teaching and the text's intended audience. It reveals that Shakespearean texts contain possibilities for more decentred forms of knowledge production.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 78 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element explores the complex relationship between authority and Shakespearean teaching, drawing from real-world experiences in diverse classrooms and outreach programs. By integrating a deep understanding of Shakespearean texts with critical perspectives on teaching, particularly influenced by the work of Jaques Rancière, it sheds light on the potential for more decentered forms of knowledge production within the realm of Shakespearean studies.

Within the Shakespearean text, certain elements emerge as rich sources of possibilities for alternative forms of knowledge production. For instance, the original audience of the plays, namely the actors, holds significance in understanding the pedagogical intentions behind the text. Dramatic irony, a hallmark of Shakespearean drama, serves as a tool for fostering critical thinking and promoting deeper understanding among readers.

By examining the ways in which Shakespearean texts were designed to educate and engage actors, we can uncover insights into the potential for more democratic and inclusive approaches to teaching. This involves challenging traditional hierarchies of knowledge and empowering students to engage with the text on their terms, fostering a sense of ownership and agency in their learning.

Furthermore, the study of Shakespearean authority. texts can be approached from a Rancièrean lens, which emphasizes the importance of social and political contexts in understanding the meaning and significance of the plays. This approach encourages students to consider the broader social and political implications of Shakespearean works, promoting a more nuanced and critical understanding of the world around them.

In conclusion, this Element challenges the traditional notion of authority in Shakespearean teaching and encourages educators to explore alternative approaches that prioritize student engagement, critical thinking, and social and political awareness. By integrating a deep understanding of Shakespearean texts with critical perspectives on teaching, we can create more inclusive and democratic learning environments that empower students to become active contributors to their own education.

Weight: 80g
Dimension: 125 x 178 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108948692