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Shakespeare, Queer, and Transgender Theory - ENG00160M

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  • Department: English and Related Literature
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Ezra Horbury
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24
    • See module specification for other years: 2024-25

Module summary

This module examines Shakespeare’s drama through queer and
transgender perspectives. It is aimed at students who want to deepen
their knowledge of Shakespeare’s plays and the means of interpreting
them, as well as students who want to delve into the diverse
approaches of queer and transgender theory. In combing historicist
scholarship with cutting edge theoretical approaches, this module will
provide students with the tools to critically analyse questions of
gender and sexuality in Shakespeare and beyond.
The module addresses the casting of boy actors, competing
perspectives on homosociality and homoeroticism, ideas about
religion (Christianity, Judaism) and gender, the practical aspects of
performing gender, among others. By reading texts through a range of
queer and transgender perspectives, the module brings history and
theory into productive conversation.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2023-24

Module aims

This module aims to provide a grounding in how early modern ideas
of gender and sexuality informed the writing and performance of
Shakespeare’s plays. It also aims to introduce students to important
debates in contemporary queer and transgender theory and to learn
different ways of applying contemporary theory to historical texts.

Module learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module, you should be able to:
1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of and
engagement with Shakespeare’s plays.
2. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of and
engagement with early modern gender, sexuality, and

contemporary theory.
3. Evaluate key debates within the relevant critical fields
dealing with queer theory and transgender theory.
4. Produce independent arguments and ideas which
demonstrate an advanced proficiency in critical thinking,
research, and writing skills.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
4000 Word Essay		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

None

Module feedback

You will receive feedback on all assessed work within the University deadline, and will often receive it more quickly. The purpose of feedback is to inform your future work; it is designed to help you to improve your work, and the Department also offers you help in learning from your feedback. If you do not understand your feedback or want to talk about your ideas further you can discuss it with your module tutor, the MA Convenor or your supervisor, during their Open Office Hours

Indicative reading

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, As You Like It, Merchant of
Venice, Richard II. Theoretical writings by Jack Halberstam, Jay
Prosser, Jeffrey Masten, Sawyer Kemp, Gayle Salamon.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.