XWRT6036 - Playwriting

Course Description

Throughout history, playwrights have used their gifts to highlight social movements, push boundaries and examine common themes of human nature. Even more so than other forms of writing, playwriting fundamentally requires the ability to observe: to pay attention to and capture the essence of characters, relationships, settings, styles of speech, and more. Contemporary playwrights have been a strong driving force in the discussion of race, gender and sexuality by exploring them through a critical and dramatized lens. This course is designed to give the student the fundamentals of play construction and theory, using writing techniques and exercises, and in-class feedback. We will read approximately one play per week to give an overview of and introduction to different periods and styles of dramatic history. Students will write frequently to master the art and craft of playwriting. The goal is to complete a one-act play or one act of a play.

Prerequisite(s): 

• None

Note:

- This course does not provide certificate credit.