2024-2025 Catalog

LAW-2161 Shakespeare and Knowledge Technology

Shakespeare may be among the deadest of the Dead White Men, but his influence continues to resound four centuries after he put down the pen, and familiarity with his works is expected in an educated person. Not only was he one of the greatest literary artists in history, he was remarkably progressive for his time on the roles and rights of women and the relationships among religion, government, and society. The works are full of allusions to legal concepts and processes. This course is designed to sharpen your Shakespeare literacy, and provide in depth study of a couple law-themed plays (Measure for Measure and The Merchant of Venice.) It will also introduce you to some of the latest technologies for collaborative knowledge work. Well critically examine the evidence and arguments around the controversial theory that Will from Stratford-upon-Avon was not the author of the works that have come down under his name. (Mark Twain was convinced he must have been a practicing lawyer.) This is a three credit course. In addition to classes, students are expected to spend an average of eight hours a week preparing for discussion and working on projects. No prior experience in Shakespeare or knowledge technology is required. 25 Mar 2022 12:22 PM

Credits

3