LITERATURE 131w is an introduction to the plays of Shakespeare as literary, dramatic, and cultural texts; and an introduction to writing clear, well-argued, critical prose. The reading and the writing are two parts of a single activity; the aim is to make us sensitive audiences, self-aware readers, and interesting, articulate responders.

Right now you're looking at THE ELECTRIC SHAKESPEARE, a set of on-line resources and exercises to supplement readings and discussions, and to help in the writing of the critical essays. It's a required part of the course.

Mouse your way around THE ELECTRIC SHAKESPEARE by clicking the buttons on the left. Here are some of the things you'll find:

Essay and Workbook give you specific instructions for your writing assignments and preparatory exercises. Read the appropriate section for each play as soon as you've checked the Syllabus.

Handbook contains linked entries about Shakespeare's texts, theater, and style. It also includes some key words for literary criticism and advice about how to write a successful essay for Lit 131w. Browse it, and return to it throughout the term.

Newsgroup is the electronic all-course precept. Its value and quality are up to you. Initiate and participate in discussions, ask questions, make suggestions, get involved. Check the Newsgroup frequently: if there's nothing new on it, say something.

Text gives you searchable versions of the plays. Experiment with it.

Shakescenes contains links to video clips showed in class that you can review in your dorm room or in a cluster. You will need (and probably already have) RealPlayer. If not you can download it from http://www.real.com.

This project would not have been possible without the help of:
The 250th Anniversary Fund for Innovation in Undergraduate Education; Mark Woon, HTML and CGI Programmer; CIT Staff Members: Paula Hulick, Multimedia Consultant and Digital Video Specialist;David Herrington, New Media Center Manager; Peter Batke, Humanities Consultant and Database programmer.