Shakespeare and Politics Today?
Your Instructor
PhD in English Literature
Harvard University
Samuel Bozoukov received his PhD in English Literature from Harvard University, where he taught courses on Shakespeare, Milton, the ancient Greek hero, and the history of the essay. His research explores the intersections of early modern literature, sound studies, poetics, and disability studies, with particular emphasis on John Milton’s Samson Agonistes.
What you'll learn
Gain confidence reading Shakespeare, regardless of prior experience
Explore Shakespearean drama through enduring political questions surrounding populism, authoritarianism, political violence, and the uses of law
Compare different performances and interpretations of key scenes
Develop interpretive habits through discussion, close reading, and short weekly responses/questions
Course Schedule
Through some sonnets and short selections of Shakespeare's poetry, we begin by asking why the Bard's plays continue to feel politically relevant. Rather than treating Shakespeare as a timeless authority or a source of political dogma, we will propose that his plays stage dichotomies and conflicts that remain unresolved. We will also discuss how Shakespeare’s theater worked in its own time, the kind of political environments he learned about and grew up in, and why audiences across centuries continue to reinterpret these plays politically.
What You Get
Live interactive sessions
Engage in real-time discussions with expert instructors
Small discussion groups
Maximum 15 students for personalized attention
Session recordings
Review and revisit class content anytime
Dedicated platform
Track progress and organize your schedule
Frequently asked questions
Your Instructor
PhD in English Literature
Harvard University
Samuel Bozoukov received his PhD in English Literature from Harvard University, where he taught courses on Shakespeare, Milton, the ancient Greek hero, and the history of the essay. His research explores the intersections of early modern literature, sound studies, poetics, and disability studies, with particular emphasis on John Milton’s Samson Agonistes.