The Americas on stage: Theatre, family and society

Core Course

In this course we will examine the representations of society, family and relationships in various countries of the Americas through the stage plays of those countries. The various aspects of society include inequality, racism, sexism, poverty, political oppression and others. The various aspects of family life include straight, gay and bisexual relationships, marriage, infidelity, betrayal, sibling rivalry, and inheritance. We will also examine the literary and theoretical influences on the plays and playwrights. The class is in English and all readings are in English. Some are English translation from source texts in Spanish or Portuguese. (Reading knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese is not required.) We will read authors from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Ecuador, México, Puerto Rico/USA.