This seminar will propose a discussion of mobile selves, especially those situated on the periphery of social inclusion (or beyond its range), as represented in Early Modern drama. This will be done with a view to developing a historicized understanding of the challenges posed today by human mobility, under current global circumstances.
The seminar will start off from a general consideration of notions of mobility as a dimension of human experience and culture, drawing on such authors as Stephen Greenblatt (2010), Peter Adey (2010, 2014) and Linda Woodbridge (2001). Such notions will then be applied to a critical discussion of Early Modern texts, with a particular focus on representations of (or conducive to) fear and laughter.
The seminar will include a preliminary overview of key issues presented by the seminar leader, followed by series of short presentations to be offered by the students. These presentations will be assigned to the students and prepared, with guidance, in the months that precede the intensive programme; and, during the seminar itself, they will in every circumstance be framed by discussions guided and moderated by the seminar leader.
